Political level talks begins between Mizoram govt & HPC(D)

The first round of political level talks between Mizoram government and the insurgent outfit Hmar People's Convention (Democratic) began here today, an official said.
The talks would also be held tomorrow, Additional Secretary in the Home department, Lalbiakzama told PTI.
The talks revolved around finalisation of the draft memorandum of agreement which was meant to give more autonomy to the Sinlung Hills Development Council constituted following the accord between the state government and the erstwhile underground HPC in 1994.
It was proposed that the name should be changed to Sinlung Hills Council and a bill for the proposal would be introduced in the state legislature if an amicable solution culminating into an accord is reached, Lalbiakzama said.

The government delegation was headed by Political Adviser to Chief Minister, Lalrinmawia Ralte, while the 10-member HPC(D) delegation was led by the outfit's Working Chairman Lalthangliana Hmar.
The HPC(D), an offsoot of the HPC, was formed by Lalhmingthanga Sinate in 1995, after HPC cadres laid down arms following the accord inked with the Mizoram government.
The HPC(D) continued to demand a separate autonomous district council under Sixth Schedule of the Constitution for the Hmar community concentrated in the north eastern part of the state adjoining Manipur.