Opposition from North-Eastern States to Centre’s decision to close India-Myanmar border

• Decision has been taken to prevent a situation akin to Manipur violence

• Chief Ministers of Mizoram and Nagaland States are also against the decision

New Delhi – Four States in North East India share borders with Myanmar, and the Union Government has recently made the decision to close these borders. Consequently, the ‘Free Movement Regime’, which allowed travel up to 16 kilometres along the border without requiring a visa for the past six years, has been revoked. The violence that erupted in Manipur last year was fuelled by Myanmar. Arms and narcotics were being smuggled through the open border. Hence, the Government took this step. However, this decision is now facing opposition from States in the North East. The Government’s decision has effectively split the mountains and valleys into two parts. While the people in the valley regions are content with this move, those in the hilly areas are against it. Chief Ministers of Mizoram and Nagaland have also voiced their opposition.

The United Nations should intervene in this case – Naga Students Association

Opposing the Union Government’s decision, the Naga Students’ Union ‘NSF’ has said that the Naga people living on both sides of the India-Myanmar border have a birthright to live as independent citizens. The Union Government’s decision will create a serious problem. The United Nations should intervene in this matter. (Action should be taken against the student organisation making such a demand. -Editorial Perspective)

Many organisations in Mizoram are planning extensive protests against this decision. Additionally, in numerous areas, individuals have homes on both sides of the border. Residents of the border areas in Manipur fear that closing the border will lead to a humanitarian crisis. These communities have been interconnected for centuries, sharing in each other’s joys and sorrows. In many places, people have houses on both sides of the border. There is no clear division. In such a situation, practical difficulties will also arise.

1. The decision by the Union Government aims to halt the movement of anti-social elements and enhance border security. Khuraijam Athouba, spokesperson of ‘COCOMI’, a Hindu Meitei organisation, asserted, “Migration from Myanmar is at the root of the ongoing violent crisis in Manipur.”

2. Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma emphasised, “The Mizo-Jo-Chin community living on both sides of the border cannot be prevented from coming to this area.”

3. Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio stated, “The people of the Naga community reside on both sides of the border. The Union Government should formulate a consensus plan before implementing the decision.”

Editorial Perspective

Given that national interest takes precedence, the opposition to decisions aligned with it reveals the ulterior motives of certain individuals. The Union Government ought to proceed with this decision, prioritising the national interest above all else.