The political landscape of Mizoram shifted significantly on January 11, 2026. In a major move, five elected Members of the District Council (MDCs) from the Zoram People’s Movement (ZPM) resigned to join the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). This development affects the Chakma Autonomous District Council (CADC), a body already navigating a period of intense administrative uncertainty.
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Major Shift in the Chakma Autonomous District Council
The five members—Mohan Chakma, Santosh Chakma, Montu Chakma, Amit Bayan Chakma, and Sundor Muni Chakma—formally submitted their joining letters to the BJP CADC district president, Durjya Dhan Chakma. This political realignment in Mizoram comes at a critical time. Only days prior, the ruling ZPM had claimed a 16-member majority in the 20-seat council.
By joining the BJP, these leaders have effectively reduced the ZPM’s strength to 11 members. While the ZPM still holds a slim majority, the BJP’s strength has now risen to seven. District leaders suggest that more defections may follow, further challenging the current power structure.
Reasons Behind the Political Realignment in Mizoram
The defecting members cited a loss of faith in the ZPM leadership as their primary motivation. In their official statements, the MDCs highlighted several key issues:
- Administrative Uncertainty: The council has been under Governor’s Rule since July 2025.
- Lack of Stability: The members expressed frustration over the prolonged political deadlock.
- Development Concerns: They believe the BJP offers a more viable platform for safeguarding the interests of the Chakma people.
The BJP district president welcomed the new members, stating that their induction strengthens the party’s commitment to constitutional rights and rural welfare. This move is seen as a strategic push by the BJP to expand its footprint in the autonomous regions of Northeast India.
Impact on Governor’s Rule and the Floor Test
The CADC has faced a governance crisis since the collapse of the previous executive committee. Despite the Mizoram Cabinet’s recent assertion that “political stability” has returned, the Governor has maintained direct rule. The ZPM recently urged Governor V.K. Singh to order a floor test to prove their majority.
However, this latest political realignment in Mizoram complicates those plans. With the ZPM’s numbers dwindling and the Mizo National Front (MNF) holding a decisive single seat, the formation of a stable executive committee remains a challenge. The Gauhati High Court previously noted that restoring an elected government should be a priority, but only through a clear demonstration of majority support.
[Image showing the party-wise seat distribution in the 20-member CADC]
Future Outlook for CADC Governance
The defection of five members marks a turning point for the 11th Chakma Autonomous District Council. As the BJP gains momentum, the possibility of a new coalition government is being discussed in political circles.
The people of Lawngtlai district now look toward the Governor’s office for the next step. Whether a floor test is granted or Governor’s Rule is extended will depend on how the remaining members align themselves in the coming weeks. For now, the political realignment in Mizoram has ensured that the battle for control over the CADC is far from over.
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