Naga Students’ Federation opposes Indian Government’s decision to abolish Free Movement Regime
The Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) has expressed strong disapproval of the recent decision by the Indian government to abolish the Free Movement Regime (FMR) and proposing the fencing of the India-Myanmar border. The NSF asserted that this decision, laden with historical implications and a disregard for the rights of the Naga people, is a “regressive step” likely to “exacerbate conflicts in the North-East Frontier Region.”
The NSF pointed out that the proposed fencing of the boundary-line, as suggested by the authorities in Delhi, raises serious concerns about the historical context and highlighted the impact it will have on the Naga people.
“The lands and hills between the Chindwin River and the Saramati mountain range, presently on the Burma-side, are an integral part of the Naga heritage. It is crucial for India to acknowledge the historical truth that these territories belong to the Nagas,” stated the NSF through a press statement.
Stating that the “duplicity separation line, which has persisted for over 80 years, has been a root cause of conflicts and insurgencies in the North-East Frontier Region,” it viewed that this cycle of conflict will persist until a just and equitable resolution is achieved.
“The Naga people, on both sides of the Saramati mountain range, have suffered the consequences of arbitrary divisions imposed by external forces. The Nagas on the Burma-side were forced into conflicts with the Government of Burma, while those on the Indian side were embroiled in struggles with the Government of India. The attempt to arbitrarily divide and fence the Nagas is an affront to our rights and autonomy,” stated the NSF.
It further viewed that such attempts to disrupt unity will only sow the seeds of discord and unrest.
“India, as a responsible nation, must recognize that it has no right to unilaterally decide the fate of the Naga people through fencing,” asserted the NSF deeming the recent decision by the Central government to abolish the FMR as “deeply troubling”.
According to the NSF, the FMR has played a crucial role in facilitating interactions between people residing close to the India-Myanmar border and, therefore, abolishing this regime will not only restrict the cultural and social exchange between communities but will also add a layer of tension to an already delicate situation.
Stating that the 1,643- km-long India-Myanmar border traversing through Mizoram, Manipur, Nagaland, and Arunachal Pradesh is a complex landscape with diverse communities and histories, the NSF urged the Indian government to reconsider its decision and engage in a meaningful dialogue with the Naga community to find a solution that respects our historical rights and aspirations.
The NSF concluded by saying that it stands united against the “unilateral actions proposed by the Indian government” and called for a just and inclusive resolution that respects historical realities and aspirations of the Naga people.
The NSF also said that it remains committed to fostering peace, unity, and understanding in the region.