Background on the Free Movement Regime (FMR)
FMR, established in 1968, allowed people on both sides of the India-Myanmar border to move freely within a 40 km radius (later reduced to 16 km in 2004).
The FMR was created due to shared familial and ethnic ties along the border.
Recently, the Union Home Minister announced scrapping the FMR in February 2024, influenced by concerns about ethnic conflict in Manipur due to unregulated border movement.
Security Concerns and Government Plan
The government believes scrapping FMR will help address cross-border crimes like smuggling and migration.
Former Manipur CM’s complaints about ethnic violence, influenced by infiltrators from Myanmar, prompted the decision to scrap FMR.
The Centre plans to increase security along the border, including fencing, but experts question its practicality.
Challenges of Fencing the Border
Fencing is seen as impractical due to the difficult terrain, community resistance, and long border length.
Many local communities along the border have deep cultural ties across the border, raising concerns that fencing could provoke demands for a unified homeland or greater autonomy.
If not handled carefully, fencing could lead to protests and further regional instability.
Alternatives to Fencing and Future Outlook
Experts suggest that instead of fencing, better monitoring and regulations should be put in place to combat illegal trade and smuggling.
Legalizing certain cross-border trade could help both security and economic interests, with proper oversight.
Engaging local communities in decision-making, ensuring their concerns are addressed, and creating policies that balance security with local autonomy is crucial for long-term stability.
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