Northeast Desk, 8th October: The Mizo Students’ Union (MSU) has become embroiled in a controversy as police have filed charges related to an alleged abduction and extortion involving workers from M/S Satnam Global Infraproject Ltd. The incident has drawn attention following a letter sent by MSU President Samuel Zoramthanpuia to Home Minister K. Sapdanga, demanding action against Aizawl Superintendent of Police Rahul Alwal, who allegedly led a police team into the MSU office.
The controversy stems from accusations that Zoramthanpuia and several MSU members unlawfully detained a worker from Satnam Global during discussions about sponsorship for the MSU’s upcoming General Conference, scheduled for November 28-29, 2024. Allegations surfaced on September 19, 2024, stating that Zoramthanpuia forcibly brought the worker to the MSU office at around 9:30 AM, where he and two colleagues, who came to inquire about him, were allegedly held.
Reports suggest that the MSU members demanded Rs 2 lakhs from the detained workers and threatened physical harm if their demands were not met. The trio was reportedly held for approximately seven hours, during which they claimed that MSU members were intoxicated and brandished sticks to intimidate them.
In response to these allegations, police have registered charges against the MSU under various sections of the Indian Penal Code, including kidnapping, attempted robbery, and wrongful confinement. This legal action marks a significant challenge for the student body, as sources indicate that while similar incidents have been reported in the past, this is the first time a formal criminal case has been lodged against them.
The unfolding situation has raised concerns within the community and could have broader implications for the student union’s reputation and operations moving forward.