Mizoram, Assam Rifles Sign Deal for Relocation of Bases Outside Aizawl

GG News Bureau
Aizawl, 26th Oct. The Mizoram government and Assam Rifles have signed a formal agreement to relocate Assam Rifles’ bases from Aizawl’s central areas to the battalion complex in Zokhawsang, approximately 15 kilometers from the city, Chief Minister Lalduhoma announced on Saturday.

The agreement, signed on October 23 in New Delhi, involved key officials from both parties, with Union Home Minister Amit Shah in the loop. State General Administration Department Commissioner Vanlaldina represented the Mizoram government, while Assam Rifles Director General Vikas Lakhera signed on behalf of the paramilitary force.

The Assam Rifles currently operates from various prominent Aizawl locations, including Zodin Square, Khatla, and near Raj Bhavan, as well as maintaining infrastructure such as a war memorial, temple, and other residential properties. According to Chief Minister Lalduhoma, relocating these bases to Zokhawsang is scheduled to begin in April 2024, when necessary infrastructure is completed at the new site.

Within the next three months, Assam Rifles will transfer three land parcels—Chitte River (62.8 acres), Tuikual church area (0.63 acres), and Babutlang (0.453 acres)—to Mizoram authorities. The paramilitary force will also vacate its main barracks, unit hospital, and additional facilities on Zodin (25.94 acres), Tuikual (1.1 acres), and Vanapa Hall’s Quarter Guard Hill (14.5 acres). The state government will use the relinquished properties for public purposes under the Restriction of Use of Transferred Land Act, 2022.

Under the terms of the relocation, Assam Rifles will retain specific assets, including its 23 Sector headquarters (95.88 acres) in Khatla and the DIG residence near Raj Bhavan.

The call to shift Assam Rifles out of Aizawl dates back to 1988 following allegations of civilian fatalities during a clash with the force. In 2019, the Ministry of Home Affairs directed Assam Rifles to relocate by May of that year, but logistical delays halted the move. The Zokhawsang complex, inaugurated by Amit Shah last year, will soon serve as the new operational hub for the Assam Rifles battalion in Mizoram.