MYANMAR: 95 CIVILIANS KILLED IN DECEMBER 2024

Lamtluang Online News: In December 2024, a total of 95 civilians lost their lives in Myanmar. The Assistance Association for Political Prisoners (AAPP) reported this on 7 January 2025.

The deceased comprised 35 women, 59 men, one transgender person and 14 minors. Of these, 45 people died as a result of torture, while 30 succumbed to severe injuries.

The majority of the fatalities occurred in the Mandalay region, with 17 deaths reported in the Bago region. According to the AAPP, these deaths were attributable to the actions of the military council's soldiers and their affiliated groups.

Since the military council assumed power, a total of 6,124 people, including revolutionaries and civilians, have lost their lives, as of 7 January 2025.

MIZO WOMAN DEFIES CONVENTION AS AUTO-RICKSHAW DRIVER

Lamtluang Online News: Pi Lalawmpuii, a 48-year-old resident of Thingkah, Lawngtlai district, has taken up driving an auto-rickshaw to earn a living. She has been driving the auto-rickshaw for the past four months, providing services within the Lawngtlai town area.

As a mother of four, Lalawmpuii's decision to take up this unconventional profession is testament to her determination and resilience. Her husband, Rorelliana, is a carpenter, and the couple have built a stable life for themselves.

Notably, Lalawmpuii is the only female auto-rickshaw driver in Lawngtlai district, and possibly in the entire state of Mizoram.While there are female city bus conductors, two-wheeler taxi drivers and maxi cab drivers in Aizawl and other urban areas, Lalawmpuii's achievement is a significant milestone in rural Mizoram.

Her success story highlights the growing trend of women taking up non-traditional occupations in Mizo society.

As women like Lalawmpuii continue to break barriers and challenge stereotypes, they pave the way for a more inclusive and equitable future.

A VOICE SILENCED: MIZO MUSIC MOURNS THE LOSS OF C. VANLALZUIA

Lamtluang Online News: Renowned Mizo singer and All India Radio Artist, C. Vanlalzuia, and his wife have tragically died in an auto-rickshaw accident on 8 January 2025.

The accident occurred at Sathar kham, near Champhai Zote outskirts, on the road leading to Ngur village. C. Vanlalzuia, known for his hit song 'Derna Anka', was travelling with his wife, Hmangaihzuali, when their auto-rickshaw skidded off the road and ran down below the roadside. His wife died instantly at the scene. C. Vanlalzuia suffered severe injuries and was rushed to Champhai District Hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries.

The Mizo music community mourns the loss of this talented artist and his beloved wife.

CHRISTIANS IN PALETTWA TOWNSHIP CELEBRATE 100 YEARS OF CHRISTIANITY

Lamtluang Online News: The 100th anniversary of Christianity in Paletwa township, Chin State, was celebrated in SwePyiThu, Yangon region. The centenary celebration took place on 4 January, from 8 am to 4 pm, at MyoSitThit, No. 3 ward, SwePyiThar town.

Approximately 200 people from Paletwa in Yangon region attended the celebration, which was described as very joyful. The event was organised by the Centenary Committee of the Paletwa Township Christian Union, with various church unions participating enthusiastically.

The celebration showcased traditional Khumi and other ethnic cultural performances, including those from the Rakhine (Arakan), Lisho, and Matu communities. The church in Paletwa township, Chin State, was founded by Rev. Edwin Rowlands (Zosapthara) in January 1925, marking its 100th anniversary in January 2025.