Sapan News Myanmar’s resistance forces have made significant advances against the military junta, capturing strategic regions along the border. The Friendship Bridge over the River Tiau, separating Myanmar from Mizoram state in India’s north-east, has become a critical point as thousands of refugees cross into India fleeing the conflict.
The recent turmoils at this border illustrate the complex interplay of regional conflict, refugee crises, and local governance, explored by senior journalist and human rights activist Sanjoy Hazarika in his recent three-part report with his compelling photographs, published by IndiaSpend.com, a data journalism-driven news website.
Hazarika, a founder of the Centre for North East Studies and Policy Research and a member of the Sapan News Advisory Council, provides a comprehensive examination of the complexities faced by Mizoram as it grapples with the consequences of Myanmar’s ongoing conflict.
The dramatic shift in Myanmar’s political landscape following the 2021 military coup has had far-reaching effects, extending into Mizoram. The coup ousted Myanmar’s former leader and Nobel laureate Aung San Suu Kyi and intensified conflicts between Myanmar’s military government and ethnic rebel groups. This led to a massive influx of refugees into Mizoram.
Hazarika’s observations underscore the severe strain placed on Mizoram and its border towns, with 35,000 refugees spread over the state.
Despite a historic peace agreement in 1986, Mizoram’s ongoing issues with infrastructure and high poverty rates exacerbate the difficulties faced by both the incoming refugees and local residents, reports Hazarika.
His reports highlight a significant power shift within Myanmar, where rebel groups are gaining control over key positions, including a strategic post near Rih Dil Lake, a location of geopolitical importance due to its proximity to the India-Myanmar border. The capture of Rihkhawdar by the Chin National Front/Army (CNF/A) in November, 2023 has profound implications for border trade, affecting the movement of areca nuts crucial to India’s gutka and paan masala industries.
Aided by the Indian government and various relief agencies, Mizoram has shown remarkable compassion in its response to the crisis, reports Hazarika. This includes providing essential support like food, housing, and education to around 35,000 Chin refugees.
The proposed fencing along the Myanmar border has catalysed ongoing region-wise protests.
Hazarika’s reports also discuss the wider implications of India’s Act East Policy, announced in 2014 by Prime Minister Narendra Modi as an upgrade to the earlier “Look East Policy” launched in the early 1990s. The Act East Policy aims to improve regional connectivity and cross-border trade. It is a key component of India’s foreign policy, with a focus on strengthening ties with Southeast Asian countries. There are significant infrastructure investments underway, including a major road project to enhance connectivity with Bangladesh. However, these projects face delays and obstacles due to issues such as smuggling, environmental concerns, and local resistance.
These timely and crucial essays also shed light on the humanitarian crisis caused by displaced people. As the situation continues to evolve, their experiences provide a critical perspective on the intersection of local and global issues, highlighting the urgent need for continued support and strategic policy responses.
The direct and profound effects of Myanmar’s ongoing instability on neighbouring regions like Mizoram demonstrate the interconnected nature of regional conflicts. Hazarika’s reporting offers valuable insights into the challenges faced by Mizoram and underscores the need for a comprehensive response to support affected communities and address the underlying causes of the conflict.