Protest Erupts in Champhai Over Bail of Murder Accused

Mizoram: Tensions flared in Champhai town on Thursday as residents of Bethel Veng staged a protest outside the local police station, expressing outrage over the reported release on bail of nine individuals accused in the murder of a 28-year-old youth, Pausianmuanga.

The demonstration, led by members of the influential Young Mizo Association (YMA), accused the police of negligence and demanded accountability. Protesters claimed that the failure of the police to file a chargesheet within the mandated 90-day period enabled the accused to obtain bail, a lapse they described as both unacceptable and unjust.

Pausianmuanga reportedly died following a group altercation on March 29 at a football ground in Champhai, during which he fell from a pavilion. Though he was rushed to a nearby hospital, he later succumbed to his injuries.

“The inaction of the police is an insult to the people. We believe the case in-charge officer is not taking proactive measures because the victim belonged to a poor family,” a protester said, voicing a concern widely echoed among the demonstrators.

According to police sources, nine people were arrested in connection with the incident. Among them, Lalruatthara, one of the prime accused, had voluntarily surrendered at the Champhai police station on the day of the incident.

The protest has sparked renewed calls for reforms in the handling of criminal cases in the state, particularly those involving vulnerable sections of society. The YMA has urged the state government and higher police authorities to ensure justice for the victim and prevent similar failures in the future.