Mizo student body protests re-employment of retired tourism official

Aizawl: Members of the Mizo Zirlai Pawl student organization gathered outside the state tourism office on May 25 to demand the removal of a recently re-employed retired official. The protest follows a series of government orders involving the reappointment of Lalrodingi, who previously served in several administrative capacities.

The government initially hired the former official as an Officer on Special Duty in various departments and later as a special aide to the Chief Minister. After facing public opposition, officials cancelled those assignments but issued a new directive on May 22 naming Lalrodingi as the Director of Tourism. MZP president C. Lalremruata claimed that Chief Minister Lalduhoma had promised during a meeting earlier this month that this specific appointment would not occur.

The student group stated that while they accept political appointments like the Officer on Special Duty role, they oppose placing retired individuals in permanent government departments. They argue these positions block career advancement for current staff and reduce job openings for educated youth in the state. Health Minister Lalrinpuii defended the move, citing the official's extensive experience and past success in securing federal funding for tourism projects.