Former Mizoram Chief Minister and Mizo National Front (MNF) President PU Zoramthanga on Thursday delivered a special lecture titled “From Guerrilla Fighter to a Peacemaker” at Gauhati University, reflecting on his journey from armed conflict to democratic politics and peacebuilding.
Speaking at the programme, Zoramthanga said his experiences had taught him the importance of mutual understanding, tolerance and democratic values. He emphasised that trust, cooperation and a shared willingness to move forward are essential for lasting peace and development.
“My life journey has been a long one, from conflict to peace and from insurgency to politics. My book From Guerrilla Fighter to Chief Minister reflects many of the experiences and lessons from this journey,” Zoramthanga said.
The lecture was organised by the Omeo Kumar Das Institute of Social Change and Development (OKDISCD) and the Gauhati University Institute of North East India Studies (GUINEIS), in collaboration with the Centre for South East Asian Studies (CSEAS), Gauhati University.
A key highlight of the programme was the presentation of Zoramthanga’s Gauhati University degree certificate by Vice Chancellor Prof. Nani Gopal Mahanta.
Speaking on the occasion, Prof. Mahanta described Zoramthanga’s life journey as a story of transformation from conflict towards peace, democratic politics and reconciliation.
“His experiences as a prominent leader of the Northeast and his belief in peace offer valuable lessons for the younger generation and can inspire them to work towards a positive future for society,” Prof. Mahanta said.
The programme began with a welcome address by Prof. Akhil Ranjan Dutta, Director, GUINEIS. It was attended by Dr R. Lalthangliana MLA, Senior Vice President, MNF; Mr Subhash Ch. Das, Chairperson, OKDISCD; Prof. Saswati Choudhury, Director, OKDISCD; Prof. Rajib Handique, Academic Registrar, Gauhati University; faculty members, researchers, students and invited guests.
Zoramthanga also expressed his gratitude to Gauhati University for inviting him to share his experiences and reflections with students and the academic community.
The lecture provided an opportunity for the university community to engage with an important chapter of Northeast India’s political history and reflect on the role of dialogue, democratic processes and reconciliation in building lasting peace.
