In a concerted effort to address the pressing concerns surrounding the India-Myanmar border issue, the Nagaland Indigenous People’s Forum (NIPF) is poised to host a pivotal symposium scheduled for February 16, 2024, in Dimapur. The primary focus of the symposium will be to deliberate on the reconsideration of the Free Movement Regime (FMR) and border fencing policies between the two neighboring countries.
The symposium, themed ‘Reconsidering the Removal of Free Movement Regime (FMR) and Border Fencing: A Holistic Approach to India-Myanmar Relations,’ will delve into key issues including historical and political illogicality, misconceptions and reality, alternative solutions, and the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.
The key issues to be addressed in the symposium include:
Historical and political illogicality: To examine the historical and political context surrounding the FMR and border fencing, emphasizing its contradiction with India’s “Neighbourhood First” and “Act East” policies.
Misconceptions and Reality: Critically assess the reasons cited for border fencing, such as containing conflict spill-over, curbing illegal trade, tackle insurgencies, address “illegal migration”, and highlight the misconceived nature of these justifications.
Alternative Solutions: Discuss alternative measures and changes in laws and policies that the Government of India could implement to address the concerns raised, while fostering positive relations with the neighbouring country.
With an anticipated attendance of over 40 Civil Society Organizations predominantly hailing from Mizoram, Nagaland, and Manipur, alongside hundreds of esteemed public figures representing various organizations and political parties across Northeastern states, the symposium is poised to be a platform for diverse voices to express their perspectives on the FMR.
From Manipur, the Kuki Inpi Tengnoupal (KIT) has received invitation from the Nagaland Indigenous Peoples Forum for a symposium addressing the India-Myanmar Border Issue to be held in Dimapur on February 16.
The recent decision by the central government to annul the Free Movement Regime and move forward with border fencing initiatives has met with significant opposition from several civil society organizations. Notably, Nagaland’s Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio has voiced staunch opposition on behalf of the Nagaland government, emphasizing the detrimental effects of scrapping the FMR. Similarly, Mizoram’s Chief Minister, Lalduhoma, has conveyed to Home Minister Amit Shah that the imposition of border fencing runs contrary to the aspirations of the indigenous populace.
Among the notable organizations and political parties expected to participate in the symposium are the Naga People’s Front (NPF), Central Young Mizo Association (CYMA), Mizo Zirlai Pawl (MZP), Nagaland Tribe Council (NTC), Naga Students’ Federation (NSF), Naga Hoho, Eastern Nagaland Peoples Organisation (ENPO), Zoram People’s Movement, Northeast Students’ Organisation (NESO), Kuki Inpi Tengnoupal (KIT), and United Naga Council (UNC).
