Will approach neighbours if blockade stays: Zoramthanga

Mizoram chief minister Zoramthanga has sounded alarm with the Centre that if the “blockade” of supplies to the state is not lifted, the Covid19 situation could deteriorate drastically. Also, he has conveyed that he will have to seek aid from neighbouring countries like Myanmar and Bangladesh.

“Our daily number of Covid-19 cases are rising. Even 1,000 cases in a day is a big number for a small state with less population like ours. We need the consignments carrying Covid-19 equipment, test kits, etc allowed from Assam. I have told the Centre,” Zoramthanga told ET.

On reports that Mizoram could request help from Myanmar and Bangladesh, he said: “I will have no choice but to ask Myanmar and Bangladesh. What can a hungry man do? Even last time we had to take rice and oil from Myanmar. This time it is more difficult because of the pandemic but we are running out of supplies.”


The Mizoram CM, who was part of the NEDA meeting convened during Home Minister Amit Shah’s visit, felt Assam had violated the spirit of that meet. “We now have an agreement and I hope it will hold.”

He, however emphasized that his main concern was on not letting this clash impact the efforts against Covid-19. Mizoram currently has over 11,000 active cases. “The situation can get worse. We must prevent that, for which medical supplies are critical,” he told ET.