‘A direct challenge to our heritage’: JDU Nagaland on FMR termination & border fencing

The Janata Dal (United) Nagaland State Unit has expressed “deep concern” over the Government of India’s decision to erect fencing along the Indo-Myanmar border and terminate the Free Movement Regime (FMR), an agreement that has historically facilitated cross-border interactions among communities sharing ethnic, cultural, and familial ties.

In a statement, the party highlighted that 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.”

The JDU Nagaland underscored that the FMR was established to “honour the historical interconnectedness of communities divided by colonial-era borders” and has been “vital in fostering cultural exchange, economic collaboration, and regional harmony.” The party warned that its termination “risks disrupting centuries-old ties between indigenous tribes of the Eastern Nagas, who reside on both sides of the border.”

Criticizing the move, the party said, “The move to fence the border and end the FMR overlooks the unique socio-political context of the region and risks exacerbating tensions by further estranging communities already affected by the artificial division of ancestral lands.”

The JDU Nagaland also expressed regret over the “lack of transparency in the decision-making process,” stating that it “excluded meaningful dialogue with state governments, civil society, and local leaders.” According to the party, this “top-down approach undermines the spirit of cooperative federalism and risks increasing distrust among border communities.”

The statement further cautioned that “ignoring local perspectives could lead to social unrest and create long-term challenges for families and traders dependent on cross-border connections.”

Calling for a reconsideration of the decision, the party said, “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.”

The JDU Nagaland suggested that “exploring alternatives like regulated movement, advanced monitoring systems, and community-inclusive border management could offer balanced solutions.”

The party concluded by respectfully requesting the Government of India to reassess the decision and initiate inclusive dialogues to ensure that both national security and the region’s unique socio-cultural fabric are protected.

MT