The Centre’s decision to scrap the Free Movement Regime (FMR) between India and Myanmar, along with plans to fence the border, has sparked an uproar, with
the Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) seeking the United Nations’ intervention.

Union home minister Amit Shah announced the FMR suspension to enhance internal security and maintain demographic structures in the northeastern states.

The move comes amid turmoil along the 1,643-km-long porous India-Myanmar border.

Manipur chief minister N. Biren Singh lauded the decision, citing security concerns, while the NSF urged the UN to prevent further fragmentation of the Naga homeland, expressing reservations about border fencing. The NSF highlighted Naga historical and traditional rights, emphasising the need for a peaceful resolution to the Indo-Naga-Myanmar political issue.

The NSF, in a representation appealed to UN secretary-general António Guterres, sought his immediate intervention against “further fragmentation of Naga homeland by occupational forces”.

An umbrella body representing tribal communities, including the Kukis from Manipur, opposed the FMR’s removal, citing concerns about alienating local populations with cross-border ties.

Zo United demanded a Union Territory with the legislature for Manipur’s tribal people, amid escalating violence. The organisation documented attacks since May 2023, reporting 165 deaths.