Concerns Related to The India-Myanmar Border

Source: The post concerns related to the India-Myanmar border has been created, based on the article “Express View on India-Myanmar border: Keep it porous” published in “Indian express” on 24th January 2024.

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper2-International relations- India and its neighbourhood- relations.

Concerns Related to The India-Myanmar Border, The article discusses India’s decision to fence its 1,643-km border with Myanmar, and formally ending the Free Movement Regime.

What is The Free Movement Regime (FMR)?

The FMR, started in 2018, let people living along the Indo-Myanmar border travel 16 km into the other country without a visa. This regime has been suspended since September 2022. Now Government is planning to formally end the Free Movement Regime (FMR) regime.

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What are The Major Concerns Related to The India-Myanmar Border?

Security Concerns: The decision to fence the border stems from concerns over security, particularly due to the trafficking of arms and drugs.

Refugee Influx: Since the military takeover in Myanmar in 2021, the Chin province has become a battleground, leading to an influx of refugees into India’s Northeast.

Local Opposition to Fencing: Tribal groups like the Kukis in Mizoram and Manipur, who have kinship ties with Myanmar’s Chin community, oppose the fencing, as it might exacerbate ethnic tensions.

Varied State Responses: Mizoram has provided sanctuary to refugees, while Manipur’s government has framed the crisis differently, highlighting the diverse political responses.

Disrupt local lives: The FMR allowed border residents to travel 16 km into either country without a visa. Its suspension could disrupt local lives.

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What is India’s Stance on Myanmar?

Engagement with Military Regime: Unlike Western countries focused on democracy, India has chosen to engage with Myanmar’s military regime.

Look East Policy: Myanmar is an integral part of India’s Look East Policy, highlighting economic and strategic interests over political ideology.

Limited Condemnation: Despite occasional admonitions, like the External Affairs Minister’s comment in 2021, India has largely refrained from strong opposition against Myanmar’s actions that affect Indian interests.

Balancing Security and Diplomacy: India’s approach reflects a balance between security concerns and maintaining diplomatic relations with Myanmar’s military government.

Way forward

To address the India-Myanmar border issues, a balance between security needs and humanitarian concerns is essential. India should consider the impact of border fencing on local communities and maintain a diplomatic approach towards Myanmar, while addressing the refugee crisis and ethnic tensions in the Northeast.

Question for practice:

Examine India’s approach towards the Free Movement Regime (FMR) with Myanmar and its implications for the border region.