MNYO condemns move to suspend FMR along Indo-Myanmar border
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, January 28 2024: The Manipur Naga Youth Organization (MNYO) has strongly condemned the recent decision of the Indian Government to reconsider the Free Regime Movement (FRM) agreement with Myanmar and implement barbed fencing along the Indo-Myanmar border.

In a release, MNYO called on the Government of India to reconsider its decision and engage in a sincere dialogue with the affected communities, recognizing the profound historical and cultural roots that define the Nagas.

MNYO stated that the Government's decision not only undermines the profound historical and cultural ties between the Nagas living on both sides of the border but brutally severs a relationship that flows through their veins, akin to a familial blood connection, transcending time and generations.

"The artificial boundary that arbitrarily divides Nagas between India and Myanmar has long been a challenge, but the FRM has been the lifeblood that sustains our connections and relationships.

The decision to scrap the FRM not only jeopardizes the free movement that has become an intrinsic part of the Naga way of life but also severs ties that are deeply ingrained in our shared history, sacred traditions, and familial bonds that are thicker than blood", it added.

Claiming that the the real issue at the border extends beyond the absence of fencing, it lies in the egregious inadequacy of the Indian military in effectively guarding it, MNYO said that despite the deployment of various military agencies including the Intelligence Bureau (IB) in Moreh town and its adjoining borders, the region continues to grapple with challenges such as arms and drug smuggling.

"This points to a reprehensible failure on the part of the government to address the core problems, allowing unwanted infiltration right under the nose of Indian military personnel", it added.

Calling for a resolute and comprehensive solution to curb infiltration, MNYO urged the Government to deploy not only well-disciplined and incorruptible government & military officials but also to actively engage local agencies and Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) to address the security challenges with an iron will.

The organisation also demanded the government to invest substantial resources in enhancing border infrastructure and intelligence capabilities.

"It is not just imperative but a moral obligation for the government to recognize and prioritize the deep historical and cultural ties that are ingrained in the Naga psyche", said MNYO while appealing to the Government to cease its allegedly divisive measures and work earnestly towards fostering harmonious coexistence, acknowledging the inviolable blood connections that define the Nagas on both sides of the Indo-Myanmar border.

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