Amidst the backdrop of civil unrest in India’s eastern neighbor, Myanmar, and the subsequent influx of refugees, the decision by the Center to halt the Free Movement Regime (FMR) between the two countries and fortify their border has sparked significant controversy. Massive demonstrations in Mizoram and Manipur, alongside concerns voiced by NGOs in Nagaland and resolutions passed in the assemblies of Aizawl and Kohima, have effectively put a halt to the process.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah, in a recent post on his official handle, emphasized the government’s commitment to fortifying the nation’s borders. He outlined plans to erect a fence along the entire 1,643-kilometer-long border with Myanmar to enhance surveillance.

Already, a 10-kilometer stretch in Moreh, Manipur, has been fenced off, with two pilot projects utilizing a Hybrid Surveillance System (HSS) underway in Arunachal Pradesh and Manipur, each spanning a kilometer. Furthermore, approvals for fencing approximately 20 kilometers in Manipur have been granted, with work set to commence imminently.

Despite these efforts, widespread protests erupted in Mizoram and Manipur against the suspension of the FMR and the border fortification. Mizoram notably led the dissent by passing a resolution in its state assembly opposing the Center’s decision, followed by Nagaland in subsequent months.

With Civil Society Organizations and NGOs expressing apprehension, Nagaland’s Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio has urged patience, citing assurances from the Center to reconsider the matter following the state assembly’s resolution. Rio underscored ongoing dialogues between the state government and the Center, urging stakeholders to await a considered decision.

The roots of the FMR trace back to the late 19th century during British colonial rule, fostering free movement within British territories. Post-independence, India and Myanmar continued this arrangement under a revised bilateral agreement in 1967. The FMR, established in 2018, underpins India’s Act East Policy, facilitating cross-border movement up to 16 kilometers without a visa.

However, recent geopolitical shifts and security concerns prompted India’s decision to suspend the FMR. Heightened tensions and conflicts in Myanmar resulted in an influx of illegal immigrants, exacerbating existing challenges, particularly in Manipur. The porous border, coupled with the FMR, has been exploited by insurgent groups, posing security threats and fueling illicit activities like drug trafficking.

In response, India aims to strengthen border management and collaboration with Myanmar to curb cross-border threats. Yet, this decision has sparked discontent, particularly among communities benefiting from the FMR, leading to widespread protests and calls for reconsideration.

The recent demonstrations in Mizoram and Manipur reflect broader concerns over regional security, ethnic identities, and the implications of border policies. As stakeholders engage in dialogue, the need for balanced measures to address security challenges while preserving regional cooperation remains paramount.