Opposition Leader Lalchhandama Ralte on Monday lambasted the ruling Zoram People’s Movement (ZPM) government, urging them to fulfill their promise to purchase produce from farmers throughout the year rather than limiting procurement to the January-May period.
Describing the plan as an insult to farmers, Ralte emphasized the urgent need for the government to support those harvesting crops during the festive season. “Farmers are depending on the sale of their produce to buy Christmas clothes and make church donations. This limited procurement timeline fails them,” he said.
Citing examples from the national level, Ralte remarked, “The Indian government provides a support price for 24 selected crops year-round. The Mizoram government should follow suit and offer the promised rates for produce such as chili, ginger, turmeric, and broom throughout the year.”
The opposition leader also accused the ZPM government of planning to sell key state assets, including Lengpui Airport, Zoram Medical College, small hydel projects, and the Chaltlang Tourist Lodge, claiming such moves would undermine state infrastructure.
Ralte further alleged political motives behind the dissolution of the Mizoram Subordinate Service Selection Board, asserting that the ZPM’s claim to strengthen the Mizoram Public Service Commission (MPSC) had not materialized. He raised concerns about alleged irregularities in MPSC recruitment, stating, “These issues tarnish the reputation of the MPSC and question the government’s commitment to transparency.”
The opposition leader called on the ZPM government to take immediate corrective action to address these grievances and deliver on their promises to the people of Mizoram.