Naga students urge Prime Minister to rethink decision on FMR, Indo-Myanmar border fencing

DIMAPUR — The Naga Students’ Union Delhi (NSUD) has submitted a memorandum to the Prime Minister of India, urging the centre to reconsider the decision to revoke the Free Movement Regime (FMR) and cease the construction of border fencing along the 1643 kilometre Indo-Myanmar border. 

‘The decision will have far-reaching implications, particularly for the rights of the Naga people, the socio-economic fabric of the north-east region, the Act East Policy, and India’s international image,” the student body stated in the memorandum.

Highlighting its concerns, the NSUD stated that the FMR has been a crucial aspect of the Naga people’s livelihood and social interaction, allowing them to maintain ties with their brethren across the border in Myanmar.

“Revoking this regime not only undermines their cultural identity but also infringes upon their fundamental rights to freedom of movement and association,” it said, while emphasising that the imposition of border fencing and restrictions on movement only exacerbates their grievances and hampers the prospects for a peaceful resolution of the Naga political issue.

Citing the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, the student body stated that, “any unilateral decisions without consulting the stakeholders may work to undermine the hard-earned peace negotiations being undertaken between the Indian state and the Nagas.”

Further, the NSUD highlighted developmental disparities and infrastructural inadequacies in the border states of the north-east region and said that the centre’s decision would exacerbate these challenges, further isolating these regions from potential economic opportunities and impeding socio-economic progress.

“Moreover, the livelihood of many communities, including those engaged in cross-border trade and commerce, will be severely affected, leading to increased poverty and unemployment. Such oppressive measures are counterproductive to the government’s commitment to fostering inclusive growth and development, and regional stability and harmony in the north-eastern region,” read the memorandum.

Among others, the NSUD also stated that the centre’s decision contradicts the spirit of the Act East Policy as it would create barriers and impede the flow of people and goods across borders instead of fostering greater connectivity and cooperation.

“This not only undermines the credibility of the Act East Policy but also hampers India’s efforts to enhance regional cooperation and integration in the Asia-Pacific region,” it underscored.

Moreover, while India’s commitment to upholding human rights, promoting regional cooperation, and fostering good neighbourly relations is essential for maintaining its credibility on the international stage, the decision to revoke FMR and initiate border fencing “sends the wrong message to the international community, portraying India as a country that prioritises security over human rights and regional cooperation,” it argued.

This, it said, could have negative repercussions on India’s diplomatic relations and image as a responsible global actor.

In this context, the student body urged the prime minister to reconsider its decision and instead, to engage in meaningful dialogue with all stakeholders, including the Naga people, to address their legitimate concerns and aspirations.

“Furthermore, we highlight the importance of adopting a holistic approach that prioritises peace, development, and cooperation in the north-east region and beyond,” it added.

Also read: Nagas along Indo-Myanmar border seek reinstatement of FMR