Mon Dec 23 19:04:26 UTC 2024: ## Mizoram VDP Members Arrested for Killing Man Accused of Theft

AIZAWL, India – Two members of a Village Defence Party (VDP) in Mizoram have been arrested for the death of a 31-year-old man, David Lalmuanpuia, who they allegedly beat to death on suspicion of theft. K. T. Zonunsanga (31) and R. Lalhmangaihzuala (56) were apprehended Sunday and remanded to police custody after appearing in court.

The incident occurred on December 18th near Tuirial Airfield, approximately 18 km east of Aizawl. Lalmuanpuia and a friend were detained by the VDP members after a pastor reported the theft of ₹26,000 from his quarters. According to Lalmuanpuia’s mother, Nunthangmawii, the VDP members interrogated and severely beat her son for several hours, ignoring her pleas for mercy. He was found unconscious and later died from his injuries.

While police have registered a case of culpable homicide under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), Nunthangmawii maintains her son, though a drug user, was not involved in the theft and was at home at the time. The incident has sparked public outrage, with many criticizing the pastor for his alleged inaction and demanding strict punishment for the accused.

Mizoram Home Minister K. Sapdanga condemned the killing, urging community workers to act within the law. The Centre for Environment and Social Justice (CESJ) has also called for swift action against the accused, threatening to approach the National Human Rights Commission if the government fails to act, and advocating for amendments to the Mizoram Police Act, 2011, governing the VDP to prevent future extrajudicial actions.

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