Hrw Report Condemnation- Confirmed

The Statement of Chin Community in Mizoram on Human Right Watch's Report We, the Chin Community in Mizoram condemn the reports of the Human Rights Watch in Bangkok, which released on 28th January 2009 in Thailand, especially on the following issues regarding the information on the Mizo people in Mizoram and YMA (Young Mizo Association). HRW Report (252) shows that the YMA had issued "orders" to leave the Chin people residing in Mizoram. But, it was not heard that there was any issue made by the Central YMA relating to Chin People. During this period, there was no information about any Chin leaving Mizoram as a result of any issue or driving off of Chin people. . Human Rights Watch report (263) mentions of the Mizo people's thought towards Chin people accusing the Mizos saying as "Killing of a Chin is like killing a dog" is of an insult to the Mizo people and of a dialogue that can defame the Mizo people. This type of ideology is not of the Mizos'. To help those people who are in need is of the Mizo people's nature. Therefore, we condemn strongly on the use of this type of 'bad dialogue' which can cause misunderstanding among the 'Zo' generation. Human Rights Watch report (285/286) 'Mizo people made a separate Cemetery for the Chin People away from the city' is false information. There is provided a cemetery for unidentified deceased and those who do not have family for burial at the outskirt of the city by the government called "Riangvaite Thlanmual". This is not purposely made for Chin people. When Chin people die, they are buried at their respective local burial ground equally treated as the Mizo people through the help of YMA members. Therefore, regarding the burial place for Chin people mentioned in the report as well is of baseless and false report HRW Report (297, 298, 299) highlighted about the prohibition of Child labors in India, but being very poor people, Chin children coming to Mizoram for working inevitably cannot obey the Law. Regarding this, children from some families due to poverty have to work for their own survival and therefore, they cannot care about prohibition of Child labor. So far, it was not heard about forced child labor. In fact, the above HRW Reports can cause a threat to the good relationship and leading to misunderstanding among the people of brotherhood between Mizo and Chins. Besides, it was not made through consultation or confirmation from Mizo people or Chin Community in Mizoram. Therefore, we would like to stop this type of report to be spread again in future. Chin Community in Mizoram

Dated:

Media Contact: Pu Ro Za Thang (Mobile: +91 9612159722)

Aizawl 6th March 2009