Mizoram First flags non-local dominance as ‘economic subjugation’ in Aizawl

Aizawl: Mizoram First, an advocacy group based in Aizawl, on Tuesday raised concerns over the growing dominance of non-local traders in the state’s economy, describing the trend as a form of "economic subjugation."

Speaking to reporters at a press conference, the group’s president, ZR Thahmingliana, said the group identified at least 122 shops operated by non-locals during a survey conducted across 24 neighbourhoods between Kulikawn and Zemabawk in Aizawl.

Although 76.2 per cent of these establishments are registered under Mizo names, the survey found that the workforce is entirely non-local, he said. According to Thahmingliana, this discrepancy suggests that actual profits are being diverted away from the local community.

Furthermore, of the 342 shopkeepers identified as non-locals, 34 per cent reportedly lacked valid Inner Line Permits (ILP), with the majority hailing from Assam and Bihar, he said.

The leader added that the survey also uncovered significant lapses in tax compliance and regulatory adherence.

He alleged that only 39.3 per cent of identified shops run by non-tribal people pay Goods and Services Tax (GST), while 94 per cent fail to display their GST registration on-site as required by law.

The group said wholesale distribution of construction materials and daily essentials is now almost exclusively controlled by non-local entities.

Thahmingliana warned that these gaps have resulted in substantial revenue leakage, depriving the state government of essential funds. He asserted that traditional manual vigilance is no longer sufficient to safeguard the state’s economic interests.

The group urged the immediate implementation of a modern digital infrastructure to ensure accountability and proposed the introduction of Real-Time Visitor Tracking, a digital system to monitor and follow up on ILP holders; Digital Business Mapping, to maintain comprehensive records of all active businesses; and Automated Compliance, integrated tools to monitor tax payments and trade legitimacy.

The group emphasized that their findings revealed the extent of non-local control over the economy, the prevalence of tax evasion, and weaknesses in current monitoring systems.

"The current situation is an economic 'economic subjugation'—a silent assimilation occurring through trade," Thahmingliana alleged. He also clarified that their stance is rooted in the economic security of the Mizo people rather than communal prejudice, hatred, or jealousy toward non-locals.

The group has formally submitted their findings and recommendations to Chief Minister Lalduhoma, Home Minister K. Sapdanga, as well as the ministers overseeing Information and Communication Technology (ICT), Tourism, and Taxation, Thahmingliana said.