Gauhati HC urges swift political stability in Mizoram's Chakma Autonomous District Council

Guwahati: The Gauhati High Court on Wednesday stated that restoring political stability in the Chakma Autonomous District Council (CADC) as soon as possible would serve the best interests of its residents.

The court also noted that the Mizoram Governor could consider conducting a floor test to ensure the Council is led by an administration backed by a majority, as provided under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution.

The CADC has been under Governor’s Rule since July 7 due to ongoing instability, frequent leadership changes, and allegations of irregular appointments, which drew strong opposition from several Chakma civil society organisations.

While the State government had indicated that an alternative executive committee was ready to take office, the Governor continued with direct administration, citing persistent disorder.

The Aizawl bench of the Gauhati High Court said there was “no ground to interfere” with the Governor’s July 7 proclamation, noting that the Constitution grants discretionary powers to the Governor under Paragraph 16(2) of the Sixth Schedule and Paragraph 20BB.

In disposing of writ petition No. 84 of 2025, the court highlighted that the Governor may take “necessary steps as expeditiously as possible” to restore an elected administration in the interest of justice, equity, and fairness.

Former Chief Executive Member and BJP CADC president Durjya Dhan Chakma welcomed the verdict, saying it reaffirmed the principle of non-interference in areas where the Constitution grants authority to the Governor.

He added that the decision protects the administrative framework of the CADC and provides clarity and stability for the future.

Governor’s Rule was imposed after renewed turmoil in mid-June, when the BJP-led executive, headed by CEM Molin Kumar Chakma, lost a no-confidence vote on June 16 following the defection of 12 BJP Members of District Council (MDCs) in the 20-member house to the Zoram People’s Movement (ZPM).

The ZPM MDCs then formed their legislative party and staked a claim on June 18 to form the next executive committee.

After the Governor’s proclamation, State Home Minister K Sapdanga said the council of ministers had requested the Governor to reconsider, noting that the ZPM held a clear majority with 16 MDCs and was ready to form a stable executive.

The government’s position was formally communicated to Raj Bhavan on July 5.