Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma reiterated the state government's opposition to the fencing of the Indo-Myanmar border and the termination of the Free Movement Regime (FMR). Lalduhoma highlighted that the current border, imposed by the British, was a product of divide-and-rule tactics that separated the Mizos.

In discussions with leaders of the NGO Coordination Committee (NGOCC), Lalduhoma underscored the aspiration among Mizos living in both India and Myanmar for reunification under a single administrative unit. The chief minister affirmed his government's desire for the FMR with Myanmar to persist.

Having met Union Home Minister Amit Shah twice in January and February, Lalduhoma communicated Mizoram's stance on the Indo-Myanmar border fencing and the preservation of the FMR. He urged the home minister against erecting a fence on the Mizoram side, even if fencing proceeds on the Manipur side of the border.

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Expressing optimism, Lalduhoma speculated that the Centre might refrain from fencing the 510-km-long Mizoram-Myanmar border in alignment with the state's position.

Earlier Amit Shah had said in a statement on X, “The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has decided that the Free Movement Regime (FMR) between India and Myanmar be scrapped to ensure the internal security of the country and to maintain the demographic structure of India’s North Eastern States bordering Myanmar. Since the Ministry of External Affairs is currently in the process of scrapping it, MHA has recommended the immediate suspension of the FMR.’

NGOCC announced plans to organise a demonstration in Aizawl on February 21 to protest the Centre's decision regarding the Indo-Myanmar border fencing and the FMR's termination. The committee comprises five major civil society organisations and student bodies, including the Central Young Mizo Association (CYMA) and the Mizo Zirlai Pawl (MZP).

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Previously, NGOCC submitted a memorandum to Amit Shah, urging the Centre to reconsider its plans for border fencing and the discontinuation of the Free Movement Regime, calling for the importance of respecting the aspirations and concerns of the Mizoram community.

(With inputs from agencies)


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