Hriata Chhangte to appear before Mizoram State Commission for Women

Mizoram State Commission for Women (MSCW) has initiated legal proceedings against Lalhriatrenga Chhangte, a former deputy controller of mines, following a complaint filed by a 26-year-old woman accusing him of “sexual harassment.” The 59-year-old, commonly referred to as Hriata Chhangte, confirmed on Thursday that he has been summoned to appear before the Commission on February 13. Chhangte stated, “The woman filed a complaint against me, alleging that I sexually harassed her via WhatsApp messages.” Chhangte, who also practices law, was contacted by the woman via WhatsApp text for consultation. Throughout the conversation, Chhangte reportedly solicited sexual advances from her, according to the woman.

This matter ignited widespread discussions on social media platforms in Mizoram, with some YouTubers conducting interviews with Hriata Chhangte. In these interviews, Chhangte stated that he never intended to disrespect the woman’s dignity and harbored no malicious intentions. The Women’s Commission also voiced apprehensions regarding Chhangte’s YouTube interviews, where he elaborated on the conversations and the ensuing debates among internet users. The Commission issued a plea to the public, urging them to refrain from further discussions about the matter on social media platforms.

Chhangte, currently affiliated with the Congress party, was previously associated with the state BJP, having contested the by-election to the Serchhip seat in 2021 in the ticket of the saffron party. However, he was defeated by Lalduhoma, who is now serving as the Chief Minister. Prior to this, Chhangte ran as an independent candidate in the 2019 Lok Sabha election, experiencing another loss. Chhangte gained recognition in Mizoram when he filed a criminal case in 2018 against the former Chief Minister Lal Thanhawla. The case alleged Lal Thanhawla of withholding information and providing false data during the nomination process.