Mizoram CM graces Chavang Kut
Source: The Sangai Express

CCpur, November 02 2016: Chief Minister of Mizoram Lanthanhawla graces the Chavang Kut celebration here at Peace ground along with a huge number of dignitaries from the across south-east Asia in one of the biggest cultural events ever witnessed amongst the kindred Zo descendants in the State.

Addressing the crowd at the concluding day of the three day Chavang Kut celebration, Lalthanhawla said he was delighted to be in the midst of his own people and wished that he was treated in the same essence and not as an outsider.

Saying that he was elated that the Kut committee invited him for the big event, Lalthanhawla highlighted the many initiatives he has taken for the cause of the Zo decendants the world over.

Mizoram CM graces Chavang Kut

One such initiative he said was for the protection of Khampat Bung Heritage Banyan Tree at Myanmar.

India's External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj has already submitted written request to the Myanmar Government to preserve the tree which is of historical significance to the Zo descendants.

The Chief Minister also said that he had spoken up for the cause of his blood brothers in Manipur when the infamous three 'anti-tribal' Bills were passed by the Manipur Assembly last year.

The Congress high command and other party leaders questioned him on the issue but Lalthanhawla claimed that he stood his ground despite it.

'Blood is thicker than water,' he quoted himself as telling the party leaders even as he pledged to continue to voice the interest and wield his influences if necessary for the Zo descendants in the coming days as well.

Nevertheless he chose to be cautious.

on the question of territory, as the Mizoram Chief Minister called on the Zo descendants who are scattered in numerous States and countries to be trustworthy to their respective Governments.

He however added that they should not be afraid of claiming their due rights.

The Chief Minister was accompanied by his better-half and several officials from his State.

Before he re-boarded the helicopter for Aizawl, Lalthanhawla and his team were showered with gifts by Lunminthang Haokip, Deputy Commissioner and PS Haokip, the president of the armed group KNO.

Leaders from Yimchunger, Adi, Phom, Kachin, Bodo, Kaipeng, and Zeliangrong also addressed the crowd while also showcasing their traditional dances.

Stalls displaying several traditional items, and Huts set-up to showcase the traditional practices of the tribes alongside the venue of the main event were a huge hit with the crowd during the three-days event.