ANSAM Urges Manipur Governor to Reconsider Scrapping of Free Movement Regime and Border Fencing

ANSAM acknowledged concerns about illegal immigration but firmly stated that sealing the border is not the right solution.

The All Naga Students’ Association, Manipur (ANSAM) has strongly opposed the Centre’s decision to scrap the Free Movement Regime (FMR) and construct border fencing along the Indo-Myanmar border. In a memorandum submitted to Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla, ANSAM urged for a reconsideration of the decision, citing its adverse impact on Naga communities residing along the border.

Historical Context and Concerns Over the Indo-Myanmar Border:

According to ANSAM, the present Indo-Myanmar border is an “imposed imaginary line” drawn without the consent of the indigenous tribal populations. The Naga people living across this artificial border have suffered historical injustice, facing severe socio-economic and political challenges. The Free Movement Regime, introduced in 2018 under the Modi-led BJP government, allowed border residents to travel up to 16 km on either side without a visa. This policy helped alleviate their hardships and improved their livelihood.

However, ANSAM expressed “shock and dismay” over the government’s recent decision to scrap FMR under the pretext of controlling illegal immigration and insurgency. The association argued that the Indo-Myanmar border is more than just a territorial divide—it represents deep-rooted ethnic, cultural, and linguistic ties that have existed for centuries. The memorandum stated that communities on both sides share a strong emotional and familial bond, which will be severely disrupted if the FMR is revoked.

Impact of Scrapping FMR on Indigenous Communities:

ANSAM acknowledged concerns about illegal immigration but firmly stated that sealing the border is not the right solution. Instead, the association suggested that the government adopt alternative measures such as:

Updating the National Register of Citizens (NRC) to verify and manage population records.

Establishing a Population Commission to monitor demographic changes.

Strict enforcement of the Inner Line Permit (ILP) to regulate entry into protected areas.

Ensuring greater accountability of security forces* in preventing illegal immigration.

The association argued that removing FMR would only worsen the suffering of the Naga people, many of whom have immovable assets and family ties spread across the border. The move, ANSAM stated, would amount to a violation of human rights and create a humanitarian crisis. It cited the example of Longwa village in Nagaland’s Konyak region, where an arbitrary border division has split a household into two countries, illustrating the deep personal impact of such border decisions.

ANSAM also criticised the government’s decision to erect a physical fence along the entire 1,643 km Indo-Myanmar border, stating that it is an unjustified response to the ongoing ethnic conflict between the Meitei and Chin-Kuki communities in Manipur. The association warned that fencing the border would not resolve the crisis but could, in fact, escalate tensions further.

The memorandum described the move as “illogical” and said it would be perceived as an additional burden on the Naga people, who have already suffered due to past political decisions. It urged the government to recognise that the border is not merely a security concern but a living space for thousands of Indigenous people who have coexisted for generations.

ANSAM also pointed out that India is a signatory to the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) 2007, which acknowledges the right of Indigenous communities to maintain cross-border ties for spiritual, cultural, and economic reasons. The association argued that scrapping FMR contradicts India’s commitment to these international obligations.

Additionally, ANSAM raised concerns over the environmental impact of border fencing. The Indo-Myanmar region is known for its rich biodiversity, and the installation of a physical barrier could disrupt ecosystems, endanger wildlife, and damage the environment. The association warned that this could lead to an “ecological crisis” alongside the anticipated humanitarian issues.

ANSAM strongly urged the Government of India to reconsider its decision, warning that the termination of FMR and the installation of border fencing could spark civil unrest in the Northeast. The association called for an immediate review of the policy to prevent further escalation of tensions in the region.

Moreover, ANSAM criticised the delayed resolution of the Indo-Naga political issue, despite 28 years of negotiations. It reaffirmed its support for the Indo-Naga peace process and urged the Indian leadership to demonstrate sincerity in implementing the Framework Agreement signed on 3rd August 2015. The association emphasised that any attempt to resolve the ongoing Manipur crisis must not infringe upon Naga’s land and identity.

While appreciating government efforts to restore peace in Manipur, ANSAM reminded policymakers that their decisions must respect the sentiments and rights of indigenous communities. The association called for a balanced approach that addresses security concerns without undermining the historical and cultural ties of the Naga people.

The memorandum submitted by ANSAM reflects the deep frustration and anxiety of the Naga community regarding the scrapping of the Free Movement Regime and the proposed border fencing. The association has made it clear that the government’s decision is not just a security issue but a matter of human rights, cultural preservation, and regional stability.

As the debate over border security continues, the government will need to carefully consider the concerns raised by indigenous groups like ANSAM. A solution that balances national security with the rights of border communities will be crucial in ensuring long-term peace and stability in the region.

Also Read: Civil Bodies of Mizoram, Manipur And Nagaland Protest Scrapping FMR

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