Aizawl, February 3, 2026: Regional organisation Mizoram First on Tuesday claimed that a large number of non-Mizo traders are operating businesses in Aizawl under Mizo names, raising concerns over regulation and compliance.
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| Leaders of Mizoram First address a press conference at the Aizawl Press Club, presenting findings of a survey on non-Mizo businesses operating under Mizo names in the city. |
Addressing a press conference at the Aizawl Press Club, leaders of Mizoram First said they had conducted a survey in October last year across 24 localities in Aizawl. According to the findings, out of 122 shops surveyed, 76.2 per cent were reportedly owned or operated by non-Mizos using Mizo names.
The organisation further claimed that 34 per cent of non-Mizo workers engaged in these establishments did not possess valid Inner Line Permits (ILP). It also stated that only 39.3 per cent of the businesses were paying Goods and Services Tax (GST), while an overwhelming 94 per cent were allegedly operating without proper registration.
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Mizoram First also pointed out that non-Mizo traders have gained significant control over key commercial sectors in the city, particularly in hardware and large grocery businesses, which they said are now largely dominated by outsiders.
Expressing concern over the long-term economic and social implications, the organisation urged the state government to strengthen ILP enforcement and introduce a digital monitoring system for business regulation. It stressed that such measures are necessary to prevent unfair competition and ensure transparency in trade and commerce across the state.
