The issue of the Free Movement Regime (FMR) along the Indo-Myanmar Border (IMB) took center stage during the 6th session of the 14th Nagaland Legislative Assembly (NLA) today, as Chief Minister Dr Neiphiu Rio proposed leading an all-party delegation to meet with the union Home Minister to address concerns regarding the restrictions on cross-border movement.
Speaking at the Assembly Secretariat, Dr Rio outlined that the Government of India had issued instructions allowing the cross-border movement of people residing within 10 kilometers on each side of the Indo-Myanmar Border. The movement is restricted to 43 designated crossing points, nine of which are located within Nagaland. Individuals crossing the border will be required to hold a “Border Pass,” issued by authorized representatives of the Assam Rifles. The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has also requested the state government to check Myanmar nationals for their border pass and take action on any unauthorized overstay or activity.
Dr Rio emphasized that these measures could significantly impact the historical, social, cultural, and economic ties between the Naga people living on both sides of the border. He noted that the movement of people for accessing health and education facilities has been a long-standing practice and raised concerns about the humanitarian impact of the new restrictions.
The Chief Minister shared that the State Government has repeatedly highlighted these issues to the MHA. He referenced decisions made by the State Cabinet on 8th February 2024, and again on 6th January 2025, which called for the continuation of the Free Movement Regime, with appropriate regulations developed in consultation with people residing in the border areas. He also noted that the Chief Secretary had written to the Union Home Secretary on 14th February 2024 and 22nd January 2025, reiterating the state’s position on the matter.
Dr Rio also reminded the House of the unanimous resolution passed by the NLA on 1st March 2024, which appealed to the Government of India to reconsider the suspension of the FMR due to the unique ties of the Naga people across the border. He expressed the need to convey the sentiment of the Assembly to the Ministry of Home Affairs and proposed that an all-party delegation be formed to meet with the union Home Minister at the earliest. The delegation would present the resolution, along with the Cabinet decisions, to urge the reconsideration of the FMR suspension.