HPC-D (Lalhmingthang Sanate Faction) lays down arms at CTI Sesawng

Aizawl | April 30, 2026: Following the signing of a peace accord with the Government, the HPC-D (Lalhmingthang Sanate Faction) laid down their arms today at CTI Sesawng.

The HPC-D (LF) surrendered their weapons in the presence of Chief Minister Lalduhoma, Assembly Speaker Lalbiakzama, Home Minister K. Sapdanga, Lok Sabha MP Richard Vanlalhmangaiha, and other dignitaries. The weapons were received by IGP H. Ramthlengliana on behalf of the Mizoram Government. A total of 43 personnel, led by their leader Lalhmingthang Sanate, have returned to mainstream society.

According to sources, the surrendered cache included 18 rifles, 4 pistols, 2 mortars, 8 walkie-talkies, along with a quantity of mortar shells and ammunition.

A Brief History of the Movement

1986: The Hmar Peoples' Convention (HPC) was founded.

July 27, 1994: An accord was signed with the Congress-led Mizoram Government; over 300 cadres surrendered.

1995: Dissatisfied members formed the HPC (Democratic).

2011: The group split into two—the Zosangbera faction and the Lalhmingthang Sanate faction.

April 2, 2018: The Zosangbera faction signed an accord with the Congress government; 114 cadres surrendered.

April 14, 2026: After several years, the Lalhmingthang Sanate Faction signed a peace agreement with the current Mizoram Government, leading to today’s arms-laying ceremony.

"Let us all refrain from anything that triggers insurgency and conflict" – Chief Minister

The Mizoram Government organized a formal "Home Coming and Arms Laying Ceremony" at the Central Training Institute (CTI) Parade Ground in Sesawng to welcome the HPC-D (LF) members back to normal life.

Key Excerpts from the Speeches:

Chief Minister Lalduhoma:

The Chief Minister emphasized that peace in Mizoram was incomplete as long as the HPC-D issue remained. "Today, we can proudly say Mizoram is a truly peaceful state," he said. He stressed Mizo unity, stating that sub-tribes cannot stand alone and must unite under a common Mizo identity.

"Peace comes at a high price. We value those of you laying down your arms today; only the brave have the courage to yield. The people of Mizoram will no longer tolerate insurgency. Let us abandon policies that stir conflict just for the sake of political gain."

Home Minister K. Sapdanga:

The Home Minister called the day historic and credited the Chief Minister's long-standing dedication to peace, calling him a "Symbol of Peace" for the state. He assured the returnees that the government would work with them to achieve the development they had campaigned for.

Speaker Lalbiakzama:

As the only ruling party MLA from the Hmar Demand Area, the Speaker noted that achieving this peace had been one of his primary objectives.

Lalhmingthang Sanate (HPC-D Leader):

Sanate expressed faith in the new "people's government" and the Chief Minister’s understanding of their grievances. He cited the construction of the "Unity Bridge" and the Mauchar road as signs of the government's commitment to developing their region. "While the accord may not meet every single one of our demands, we have agreed to it because we believe it is an agreement we can live with," he stated.

The Ceremony

The event began with a devotion led by Pastor Lalhmunsiama (ICI) and a welcome address by Home Secretary Vanlalmawia. Following the surrender of weapons to the IGP, the cadres took an oath, led by Sr. SP (CID) Stephen Lalrinawma, pledging never to take up arms again. The program concluded with a vote of thanks from Lalmuanpuia Punte, Adviser to the CM.