All-party Delegation to Express Concerns Over Border Restrictions Impacting Naga Communities
In a significant development, the Nagaland Legislative Assembly on Friday unanimously resolved to send an all-party delegation led by Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio to meet Union Home Minister Amit Shah. The delegation intends to convey the widespread dissatisfaction among the Naga population regarding the Centre’s decision to terminate the Free Movement Regime (FMR) with Myanmar.
Background of the FMR Cancellation
The Free Movement Regime, introduced in 2018 under India’s Act East Policy, previously allowed residents within 16 kilometres of the India-Myanmar border to cross freely without a visa. However, in January 2024, the Central Government announced plans to end this arrangement. Subsequently, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) issued revised instructions in December 2024, limiting cross-border movement strictly to residents within 10 kilometres of the border and designating specific entry and exit points for movement.
The border, stretching 1,643 kilometres, traverses through Mizoram, Manipur, Nagaland, and Arunachal Pradesh, directly affecting communities living in proximity.
Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio Highlights the Impact on Communities
Expressing serious concern, Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio emphasized in the Assembly that ending the FMR would adversely affect the historical, cultural, tribal, economic, and social bonds among Naga communities residing on both sides of the India-Myanmar boundary. He pointed out the practical challenges posed by the new regulations, including disruptions to agriculture, healthcare, education, and familial relationships.
Rio noted that the current MHA instructions require at least two police personnel and two health officials stationed at each of the 43 designated crossing points managed by Assam Rifles. Of these points, nine are situated in Nagaland. Entry across these designated points now mandates possession of a Border Pass issued exclusively by the Assam Rifles.
Humanitarian Concerns Raised by Nagaland Assembly
Rio underscored the humanitarian angle, emphasizing that Nagas often cross borders for essential activities such as farming, education, and medical care. He stressed that the new restrictions could severely disrupt daily life and urged reconsideration of the decision from a compassionate standpoint.
The Assembly had previously passed resolutions on March 1, 2024, and the state Cabinet expressed its concerns through decisions taken on February 8, 2024, and January 6, 2025, calling for a review of these border regulations.
Nagaland Requests Continuation of the Free Movement Regime
Highlighting the proactive steps already taken, Rio informed the House that Nagaland's Chief Secretary wrote to the Union Home Secretary on January 22, 2025, urging the Central Government to reconsider fencing the international border and instead continue the FMR under a regulated framework.
The proposed all-party delegation aims to formally present these grievances and appeals to Union Home Minister Amit Shah at the earliest opportunity, reflecting the collective sentiment of the Nagaland Assembly.
