In a bold stance against the Centre's decision, the Mizoram Assembly has adopted a resolution opposing the proposed fencing of the India-Myanmar border and the scrapping of the Free Movement Regime (FMR) with Myanmar.
The resolution, championed by Home Minister K Sapdanga, reflects the deep-rooted concerns of the Zo ethnic people who have historical ties straddling the border between Mizoram and Myanmar.
Highlighting the historical context, Sapdanga emphasized how the Zo ethnic people, who have inhabited both Mizoram and the Chin hills of Myanmar for centuries, were divided by the colonial demarcation of the India-Myanmar border by the British.
The resolution underscores the aspirations of the Zo ethnic people for reunification under one administrative unit, echoing their longstanding dream of overcoming artificial borders imposed by colonial powers.
The Mizoram government's resolution comes in response to recent announcements by Union Home Minister Amit Shah regarding the fencing of the entire India-Myanmar border and the suspension of the FMR. Sapdanga expressed vehement opposition to these decisions, alleging that they were primarily motivated by the demands of the Manipur government.
Furthermore, Sapdanga argued that national security concerns cannot justify the fencing of the India-Myanmar border and the suspension of the FMR. He pointed out the potential adverse impact on people living along the border and called for a more nuanced approach that considers the interests and aspirations of the Zo ethnic people.
The unanimous adoption of the resolution by the Mizoram Assembly underscores the unity and determination of the state's leadership in defending the rights and interests of its people.
Chief Minister Lalduhoma and Leader of the Opposition Lalchhandama Ralte of the Mizo National Front (MNF) were present during the assembly session, signaling bipartisan support for the resolution.
In addition to the political leadership, civil society organizations and student bodies in Mizoram have vehemently opposed the Centre's decision, highlighting the broad-based resistance to the proposed border fencing and FMR suspension.
As Mizoram and other northeastern states grapple with the implications of these decisions, the resolution passed by the Mizoram Assembly serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of upholding the rights and aspirations of indigenous communities in shaping policies that directly affect their lives and identities.
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