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Naga Outfits Oppose Border Fencing
Naga Outfits in Manipur Oppose India-Myanmar Border Fencing
The issue of India-Myanmar border fencing in northeastern states has sparked strong opposition from several indigenous groups. Following Nagaland and Mizoram, organizations in Manipur’s Naga-inhabited areas have voiced their discontent with the proposed fencing along the border, raising concerns about its impact on the local communities and their rights.
Naga Village Chief Federation Opposes Fencing
The Naga Village Chief Federation Manipur (NVCFM) is at the forefront of the opposition to the fencing in Naga-inhabited areas along the India-Myanmar border. NVCFM spokesman Darthot Peter announced that during a recent assembly, the federation unanimously passed a resolution against the construction of the fence. The group believes that the fencing violates the rights of the Naga people, which are protected under the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.
“The Government of India’s policy to fence the India-Myanmar border in Naga-inhabited areas is an infringement on indigenous rights,” said the NVCFM spokesman. The federation has decided to reject any cooperation with the government or related agencies concerning the fencing work, instructing all Naga village chiefs to adhere to the decision.
Naga-Inhabited Regions Affected by Fencing
The areas affected by the proposed India-Myanmar border fencing include several districts in Manipur where the Naga people reside, such as Tamenglong, Chandel, Ukhrul, Kamjong, Noney, and Senapati. These regions are adjacent to the borders of Nagaland and Myanmar, where people from the Naga community have lived for generations.
While some states like Nagaland and Mizoram have expressed their opposition to the fencing, others like Manipur and Arunachal Pradesh have been advocating for it. Manipur’s government has emphasized the need to secure the border to prevent infiltration, cross-border movement of militants, and other security threats.
Manipur Government Supports Border Fencing
Despite the resistance from Naga groups, the Manipur government remains firm in its stance to proceed with the border fencing. Officials have repeatedly urged the Central government to expedite the fencing along the 398-km stretch of the India-Myanmar border shared with Manipur. The goal is to curb illegal crossings and stop the movement of militants and other hostile elements into the state.
Recently, Manipur Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya visited the border town of Moreh, located in Manipur’s Tengnoupal district. He instructed the local authorities to ensure the speedy completion of the fencing project. The Governor stressed the importance of the fencing in safeguarding the people living in border areas and preventing militant infiltration.
Security Concerns at the India-Myanmar Border
The security situation along the India-Myanmar border remains a concern for both the Manipur government and the Central government. Governor Acharya reviewed the security arrangements in Tengnoupal, a district that is home to both tribal and non-tribal communities. His visit highlighted the strategic significance of securing this region.
While the construction of fencing is already underway along a 20-km stretch of the mountainous border, much of the 398-km border with Myanmar remains unfenced. The Manipur government is eager to see the entire border secured, as the porous boundary has long been exploited by militants, traffickers, and other illegal elements.
Wider Implications in the Northeast
The fencing issue is not confined to Manipur. The northeastern region of India shares a 1,643-km long unfenced border with Myanmar, touching states like Arunachal Pradesh (520 km), Nagaland (215 km), and Mizoram (510 km). The governments of Manipur and Arunachal Pradesh have consistently pushed for the fencing, while Nagaland and Mizoram have seen opposition from various organizations.
In Manipur, Chief Minister N. Biren Singh has frequently appealed to Union Home Minister Amit Shah to speed up the fencing efforts. Similarly, Arunachal Pradesh’s Home Minister Mama Natung has also raised concerns about cross-border militancy and illegal movements, asking for more stringent measures to secure the borders.
Natung, during a meeting with Amit Shah, discussed the challenges of maintaining border security and emphasized the need for proper fencing along the state’s International Borders to prevent infiltration.
Cultural and Social Impact of Border Fencing
One of the key concerns raised by the Naga groups opposing the India-Myanmar border fencing is the cultural and social impact it will have on the local communities. People from various tribal communities, including the Naga, Mizo, Kuki, Zomi, Chin, and Hmar, live on both sides of the India-Myanmar border. These groups share close familial and cultural ties, and the construction of a physical barrier is seen as a disruption to their way of life.
For many indigenous communities, the border is an artificial line that divides families and communities that have lived in the region for centuries. The India-Myanmar border fencing could sever these deep-rooted connections, which is one of the main reasons for the strong opposition from Naga organizations.
Conclusion
The debate over the India-Myanmar border fencing continues to highlight the complex balance between national security and the rights of indigenous communities. While the Manipur government is determined to move forward with the fencing to prevent infiltration and ensure security, Naga groups like the NVCFM are resolute in their opposition, citing the potential violation of indigenous rights.
As work progresses on the fencing along the India-Myanmar border, it remains to be seen how the government will address the concerns of the local communities while ensuring the safety and security of the region.
Disclaimer:
This article is intended for informational purposes only. The views and opinions expressed here reflect those of the organizations and individuals involved at the time of reporting.
