Mizoram’s Power and Electricity Minister, F Rodingliana, has accused the Assam Rifles of halting his convoy on the outskirts of Aizawl, leading to a tense exchange. The incident purportedly occurred on Thursday as the minister was returning from Champhai district in eastern Mizoram.
Rodingliana claims that the Assam Rifles set up a barricade on NH-54 between Aizawl and Tuirial and stopped his convoy despite being informed of his ministerial status. The minister described the situation, saying, “A few metres after we passed the barricade, three personnel stopped us, stating that they were told to do so by their commander. I argued that I am Power minister… But the personnel did not let us go for some time.”
Contrarily, the Assam Rifles denied the minister’s convoy was stopped, explaining that they had established a mobile check post about 4 km from their Zokhawsang base on the Aizawl-Seiling road, where standard checks were conducted
. According to an Assam Rifles officer, the convoy was not intercepted and was granted a clear passage. It was suggested that the convoy halted voluntarily among civilian vehicles being checked, during which the minister’s personal secretary allegedly abused the on-duty troopers.
This conflicting account adds to the ongoing narrative of friction between state authorities and paramilitary forces, highlighting issues of protocol and respect. As Rodingliana stands firm on his allegations, the Assam Rifles emphasize that all procedures followed were standard and non-disruptive.
This incident underscores the delicate balance of authority and collaboration required between state officials and security forces, indicating potential areas for clarifications to prevent similar occurrences in the future. As the situation develops, maintaining clarity and ensuring mutual respect in operations between civil authorities and security personnel remain imperative.
