Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma has categorically denied claims of a formal alliance between the Zoram People’s Movement (ZPM) and the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) at the Centre. Speaking at a press conference in Aizawl, Lalduhoma emphasized that joining the NDA has never been on the party’s agenda and that the ZPM values its independence as a regional political force with a national outlook. Despite repeated invitations from national leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah, the ZPM has chosen to maintain a cooperative relationship with the Centre without formal affiliation.
Lalduhoma pointed out that the party has historically benefited from a political culture of working closely with the ruling party at the Centre, regardless of their affiliation. He also noted that the entry of national parties into Mizoram has altered the state’s political dynamic, reducing the flexibility of regional parties to maintain constructive ties with successive governments. The Chief Minister’s statement comes amid speculation about the ZPM’s relationship with the NDA, particularly after the party formed an alliance with the BJP in the Chakma Autonomous District Council (CADC).
Lalduhoma clarified that the arrangement was driven by political necessity rather than ideology, as no single group possessed the numbers required to form an executive council independently. He emphasized that the alliance was a local arrangement approved by the party headquarters. The ZPM and BJP had formally forged an alliance on Tuesday, forming the Chakma Democratic Alliance Legislature Party to stake claim to form an executive body in the CADC.
The BJP has 10 members and the ZPM 9 in the CADC. Lalduhoma’s declaration has put to rest speculation about the ZPM’s relationship with the NDA, reaffirming the party’s commitment to its regional identity and national outlook.
