Lai council urges guv to appoint CEM, warns of R-Day boycott over LADC delay

Aizawl: Central Young Lai Association (CYLA), the largest civil society organisation in south Mizoram’s Lawngtlai district, has urged governor Gen Vijay Kumar Singh to expedite the formation of the executive committee and appoint CEM in the Lai Autonomous District Council (LADC). The group has set a deadline till 4pm on Saturday, warning that it will boycott Republic Day celebrations if its demand is not met.In a letter sent on Friday evening, the association said elections to the 25-member LADC were held on Dec 3, 2025, with results declared on Dec 9. Despite a legislature party staking claim to form the executive committee, the process has stalled due to the governor’s non-approval of the chief executive member (CEM).“The prolonged absence of a functioning govt is severely impacting administration, delaying development activities, disrupting essential governance, and creating tension, frustration, and helplessness among the Lai people,” the letter stated.The association said, “Public confidence is shaken as crucial decisions on healthcare, education, infrastructure, and economic development remain stalled. The delay is undermining democratic institutions, blocking welfare schemes, hurting local businesses, and raising concerns among churches, NGOs, and civil society groups.”The association appealed to the governor to act “in the spirit of democracy, fairness, and responsibility” by appointing a CEM to restore governance and peace in the district.“If our petition is not granted, the association may boycott the Republic Day celebration. We urge Your Excellency to grant our prayer to avoid future agitation and restore peace in LADC,” the letter added.