Janata Dal (United) Nagaland opposes border fencing and scrapping of Free Movement Regime

• DIMAPUR — The Janata Dal (United) Nagaland state unit has expressed deep concern over the Government of India’s recent decision to erect fencing along the Indo-Myanmar border and terminate the Free Movement Regime (FMR) and termed the decision, reportedly driven by security considerations in certain border regions, was made without prior consultation with affected stakeholders including the people of Nagaland and neighbouring northeastern states.
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• It stated that the FMR, established to honour the historical interconnectedness of communities divided by colonial-era borders, has been vital in fostering cultural exchange, economic collaboration and regional harmony. The party stated that its termination risked disrupting centuries-old ties between indigenous tribes of the eastern Nagas, who reside on both sides of the border.

Also read: Border Fencing and the Free Movement Regime: A Legal Crossroads along the Indo-Myanmar Border

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• The JDU Nagaland has regretted lack of transparency in the decision-making process, which excluded meaningful dialogue with state governments, civil society and local leaders. It stated that the top-down approach undermined the spirit of cooperative federalism and risks increasing distrust among border communities.
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• The party cautioned that ignoring local perspectives could lead to social unrest and create long-term challenges for families and traders dependent on cross-border connections.
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• “This decision poses a direct challenge to our shared heritage and identity. Instead of constructing physical barriers, we urge the central government to engage in open dialogue with all stakeholders including Myanmar to address security concerns while preserving the rights and livelihoods of our people. Exploring alternatives like regulated movement, advanced monitoring systems and community-inclusive border management could offer balanced solutions,” JDU Nagaland stated.
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• In this regard, the party requested the state government to advocate strongly for the central government to revisit its decision; facilitate collaborative discussions involving Myanmar, state governments, tribal bodies and civil society to redesign border policies and prioritise balanced solutions that harmonise security needs with the preservation of cultural and economic bonds.
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• The party emphasised that border fencing and the termination of the FMR might not address underlying challenges but could instead widen existing gaps. It was of the opinion that a cooperative, forward-looking approach—one that respects the aspirations of border communities and ensures regional stability—is urgently needed.
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• JDU Nagaland further reaffirmed its commitment to upholding the rights and unity of the people and called for collective efforts to persuade the central government to reconsider the divisive measure.