The issue of the Free Movement Regime (FMR) and its potential impact on local communities was discussed during the ongoing sixth session of the 14th Nagaland Legislative Assembly (NLA). Concerns were raised over the proposed border fence between India and Myanmar, with several legislators questioning its implications on communities that have historically lived across the border.
MLA Nyamnyei Konyak, who posed a starred question about the designated crossing points at Mon, Meluri, and Noklak, highlighted the region’s unique social dynamics. Konyak, sharing a personal perspective, explained that his brother and other relatives live on the Myanmar side of the border. He pointed out the longstanding arrangement in Mon, where the village chief’s kitchen is on the Myanmar side and his bedroom on the Indian side, symbolizing the intertwined lives of people on both sides. Strongly opposing the border fence, Konyak argued that it would disrupt these natural cross-border connections.
Other members, including MLA P Longon, echoed concerns, particularly from regions like Pangsha and Longwa. These areas have seen the blending of lives, livelihoods, and cultural exchanges for generations. The proposed fence, they argued, could severely disrupt trade, agricultural activities, and daily life that span both sides of the border. A suggestion was made to establish an administrative headquarters at Pangsha to help manage the implementation of government policies and address local concerns.
In response to the concerns raised, Deputy Chief Minister Yanthungo Patton explained that the Government of India had regulated the FMR through a letter dated December 24, 2024. Under the new rules, movement is restricted to 43 designated crossing points across the Indo-Myanmar border, with nine such points in Nagaland, spanning four districts: Kiphire, Meluri, Mon, and Noklak. These crossing points will be monitored by Assam Rifles, with police and medical personnel stationed at each point. The Border Pass issued by Assam Rifles allows a single entry for up to seven days within 10 km of the border.
Patton clarified that the Nagaland government would oversee the checking of border passes for Myanmar nationals, addressing overstays or unauthorized activities. He also mentioned that no work order has yet been issued for fencing along the Nagaland border. On January 6, 2025, the State Cabinet discussed the issue and decided to request the Centre to continue the FMR, with a formal communication to the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA). Earlier, on February 8, 2024, the Cabinet had urged the Centre to regulate movement in consultation with border residents and village councils.
Chief Minister Dr Neiphiu Rio, responding to a supplementary question, emphasized the seriousness of the FMR issue. He outlined the government’s stance following the announcement of border fencing and stressed the need for the Home Ministry to review the Protected Area Permit (PAP) and FMR policies, as the situation in Nagaland is not as severe as in neighboring states. Rio also reminded the Assembly that Nagaland remains under the Disturbed Areas Act and the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA). He proposed that all 60 members of the Assembly pass a resolution and meet with MHA to submit their concerns, urging the state government to work diligently on resolving the issue.