Book excerpt: Despite seclusion, the Mizo Union leaders of Mizoram, erstwhile Lushai Hills, had a penchant for the mainstream politics. But the appeal of Nehru's liberalism and constitutionalism suffered a set-back because of manipulative Assam politics. Laldenga formed the Mizo National Front to establish Sovereign Mizoram. He was brainwashed by the colonialist forces. But his revolt plunged Mizoram into a horrible insurgency causing unprecedented bloodbath in North-East India. China and Pakistan fished in the troubled waters. The changed international situation., However, compelled the MNF supremo to realize his mistake. He sought refuge in the constitutionalism. Rajiv Gandhi gave that opportunity when MNF abjured violence. Laldenga became the legitimate chief minister. He was dismissed being betrayed by his own party men.