Mizoram: MZP and MIMA Uncover 36 ILP Violations at Aizawl’s International Star Expo

The Mizo Zirlai Pawl (MZP) and Mizoram Merchant Association (MIMA) conducted a verification drive at the 1st International Star Expo in Lammual, Aizawl, on Saturday, identifying 36 non-locals lacking valid Inner Line Permits (ILPs) or holding expired permits.

The individuals were promptly handed over to officials for appropriate action.

The joint inspection was triggered by concerns over unauthorised participation by non-ILP holders in commercial activities, which the groups claim undermines Mizoram’s ILP system and harms local traders. MZP and MIMA leaders emphasised their firm stance against such violations, stating that they had previously issued warnings during a joint meeting about engaging in trade with undocumented non-locals at the Expo.

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“We had cautioned both the public and authorities, but our concerns were overlooked. This represents a significant breach,” the organisations stated in a joint release.

The groups discovered that Laldingngheti Pautu, an exhibitor from Lunglei, allegedly sponsored over 20 participants through Zorun Events, an event management firm, in violation of Mizoram’s ILP regulations. According to the Mizoram Gazette Notification, no individual may sponsor more than 10 non-locals for entry into the state. Labelling the act a “serious violation,” MZP and MIMA called for stringent legal action against those involved.

Additionally, the organisations raised concerns about several food vendors at the Expo operating with expired Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) licenses, some dating back to 2020. They questioned the hygiene and safety of food items sold at the event, urging authorities to address these lapses to protect public health.