NSF bats for FMR, opposes border fencing
Source: Chronicle News Service

Senapati, January 16 2024: Naga Students' Federation (NSF) has vehemently condemned the recent move by the government of India to abolish the Free Movement Regime (FMR) and set up fencing along the Indo-Myanmar border.

In a statement signed by its president Medovi Rhi and general secretary Chumben Khuvung, NSF said that the decision of government of India would exacerbate conflicts in the North-East region as it is fraught with historical implications and is in complete disregard of the rights of Naga people.

The proposed fencing of the boundary-line, as suggested by the authorities in New Delhi, raises serious concerns about the historical context and the impact it will have on Naga people.

The lands and hills between the Chindwin River and the Saramati mountain range, presently on the Burma-side, are stated to be an integral part of the Naga heritage.

It is crucial for India to acknowledge the historical truth that such territories belong to the Nagas, NSF said.

The duplicity separation line, which has persisted for over 80 years, is considered to be a root cause of conflicts and insurgencies in the North-East region, the statement said, adding that such cycle of conflict will persist until a just and equitable resolution is achieved.

The Naga people, on both sides of the Saramati mountain range, have suffered the consequences of arbitrary divisions imposed by external forces.

The Nagas on the Burma side were forced into conflicts with the government of Burma while those on the Indian side were embroiled in struggles with the government of India.

The attempt to arbitrarily divide and fence the Nagas is an affront to the rights and autonomy of the Nagas.

Such attempts to disrupt their unity will only sow the seeds of discord and unrest, NSF said, while adding that India, as a responsible nation, must recognise that it has no right to unilaterally decide the fate of Naga people through fencing.

According to NSF, the recent decision taken by the Central government to abolish the Free Movement Regime (FMR) is deeply troubling as FMR has played a crucial role in facilitating interactions between people residing close to the India-Myanmar border.

Abolishing the regime will not only restrict the cultural and social exchange between communities but will also add a layer of tension to an already delicate situation.

The l,643km-long India-Myanmar border traversing through Mizoram, Manipur, Nagaland and Arunachal Pradesh is a complex landscape with diverse communities and histories, NSF said and urged the Government of India to reconsider its decision and engage in a meaningful dialogue with the Naga community to find a solution that respects the historical rights and aspirations of Nagas.

While urging Naga people to stand united against unilateral actions proposed by the government, NSF called for a just and inclusive resolution that respects the historical realities and aspirations of Naga people.

NSF remains committed to fostering peace, unity and understanding in the region, it affirmed.

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