Zou chiefs oppose FMR scrap, border fencing
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, January 25 2024: The United Zou Chiefs' Association Manipur (UZCAM) has submitted a memorandum to Union Home Minister Amit Shah raising objections and concerns regarding the recent decision by the Union Government to scrap the Free Movement Regime (FMR) and initiate construction of border fencing along the Indo-Myanmar Border (IMB).

The memorandum, signed by chairman and secretary of UZCAM, contended that the decision will have serious impact on the tribal communities of North-East India, particularly the Zou tribe, while stating that approximately 60 per cent of the Indo-Myanmar Border in Churachandpur district has Zou settlements.

Expressing dismay, the association emphasises that the FMR played a crucial role in easing the deep divide created by the international boundary, allowing people from both sides to travel up to 16 kilometres without the need for travel documents or visas.

This facilitated various familial and cultural interactions, such as attending ceremonies, religious conferences, and visiting sick relatives.

Quoting Article 36 of the United Nations Declaration of the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP), the memorandum underscored the right of indigenous peoples, particularly those divided by international borders, to maintain and develop contacts, relations, and cooperation for various purposes.

The association argued that the Union Government has not fulfilled its duty to consult with indigenous people and seek their cooperation before making decisions that affect their rights.

UZCAM also maintained that the sudden decision to scrap the FMR and construct border fencing lacks consultation with stakeholders and interested parties and expressed that the decision appears to favour the interests of one chief minister and one particular community of a particular state without considering the broader impact on tribal populations.

In their plea to the Union Home Minister, UZCAM urged for revision of the decision, suggested that the government drop the move for scrapping of the FMR and halt construction of border fencing.

The association pledged active participation and cooperation with the government in efforts to curb illegal activities like drug trafficking and illegal immigration.

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