Mizzima
A protest was held against the plan to scrap the Free Movement Regime (FMR), allowing free travel between India and Myanmar, at the border bridge between the two countries.
The demonstration was led by the Zo Reunification (ZORO) on 16 May at No. 2 Border Trade Bridge.
“The termination of inter-traveling over many years may cause difficulties in trading, healthcare, and society,” a Myanmar national who participated in the protest said.
The FMR allows border residents to travel up to 16 kilometres within the two bordering countries without identification documents.
Blocking this freedom of movement has negative effects on education, healthcare, religion, businesses, and farming land access.
Additionally, the Myanmar national interviewed also shared his concern for the accommodation of displaced people taking refuge in Mizoram State.
During the protest, the ZORO, the political parties such as MNF and ZMP, officials from the Young Mizo Association, officials from Myanmar Hualngoram Group, and Political Advisor MP of the State Chief Minister reportedly gave speeches against the suspension of the FMR.
Free Movement Regime was enacted to permit tribes within the division of two countries after the British occupied and ruled India and Myanmar to travel freely.
The local people say they do not accept the Indian government attempting to suspend the FMR under the pretext of national security.
The plan to suspend the FMR between the two countries was announced by the Indian Minister of Home Affairs, Amit Shah, on 8 February.
The Myanmar junta and the National Unity Government (NUG) have not released an official statement regarding India’s attempt to suspend the FMR.
