- DIMAPUR — The
Janata Dal (United) Nagaland state unit has expressed deep concern over the
Government of India’s recent decision to erect fencing along the Indo-Myanmar
border and terminate the Free Movement Regime (FMR) and termed the decision,
reportedly driven by security considerations in certain border regions, was
made without prior consultation with affected stakeholders including the people
of Nagaland and neighbouring northeastern states.
- It stated that the FMR, established to honour the historical
interconnectedness of communities divided by colonial-era borders, has been
vital in fostering cultural exchange, economic collaboration and regional
harmony. The party stated that its termination risked disrupting centuries-old
ties between indigenous tribes of the eastern Nagas, who reside on both sides
of the border.
Also read: Border Fencing and the Free Movement Regime: A Legal Crossroads along the Indo-Myanmar Border
- The JDU Nagaland has regretted lack of transparency in the
decision-making process, which excluded meaningful dialogue with state
governments, civil society and local leaders. It stated that the top-down
approach undermined the spirit of cooperative federalism and risks increasing
distrust among border communities.
- The party cautioned that ignoring local perspectives could
lead to social unrest and create long-term challenges for families and traders
dependent on cross-border connections.
- “This decision poses a direct challenge to our shared
heritage and identity. Instead of constructing physical barriers, we urge the
central government to engage in open dialogue with all stakeholders including
Myanmar to address security concerns while preserving the rights and
livelihoods of our people. Exploring alternatives like regulated movement,
advanced monitoring systems and community-inclusive border management could
offer balanced solutions,” JDU Nagaland stated.
- In this regard, the party requested the state government to
advocate strongly for the central government to revisit its decision;
facilitate collaborative discussions involving Myanmar, state governments,
tribal bodies and civil society to redesign border policies and prioritise
balanced solutions that harmonise security needs with the preservation of
cultural and economic bonds.
- The party emphasised that border fencing and the termination
of the FMR might not address underlying challenges but could instead widen
existing gaps. It was of the opinion that a cooperative, forward-looking
approach—one that respects the aspirations of border communities and ensures
regional stability—is urgently needed.
