Aizawl, July 31: Mizoram has taken significant steps to address the influx of Myanmar nationals seeking refuge in the region. The state government has begun the process of collecting biometric details of these individuals under the guidance of the Union Ministry of Home Affairs. With the number of Myanmar nationals in Mizoram crossing 30,000 since February 2021, this pilot project aims to record crucial biometric data to manage the situation effectively.
The Mizoram government, in response to the Ministry of Home Affairs directive, has launched a pilot project to collect biometric details of Myanmar nationals. This exercise is being carried out in all 11 districts of the state, with special attention given to the relief camps where many of the refugees have sought shelter.
The Union Ministry of Home Affairs had previously instructed both Mizoram and Manipur to collect biometric data on illegal immigrants, and they were reminded in June to complete the exercise by September 30. However, the process faced delays as the original format had to be modified to accommodate data collection from Myanmar nationals.
Prior to the official biometric data collection exercise, the Mizoram government had independently conducted profiling of the Myanmar nationals and issued identity cards to them. Chief Minister Zoramthanga had expressed concerns about the Centre’s instruction to deport the Myanmar nationals, emphasizing the strong ethnic ties and humanitarian reasons for providing them with shelter in Mizoram.
The majority of Myanmar nationals currently reside in relief camps, where basic necessities such as food, water, and shelter are being provided by the government, NGOs, churches, and local communities. Some of the refugees have found temporary housing in rented accommodations or with relatives.
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To sustain themselves during their stay, some of the Myanmar nationals have engaged in daily labor to earn a living. Despite the challenges, the Mizoram community has demonstrated solidarity and compassion, extending support to those seeking refuge from the ongoing crisis in Myanmar.
The influx of Myanmar nationals into Mizoram has presented a complex ethical and humanitarian dilemma. While the government is obligated to protect its borders and address issues related to illegal immigration, it also faces the responsibility of safeguarding the rights and well-being of those fleeing conflict and persecution.
Chief Minister Zoramthanga’s stance reflects the sentiment of many in the state, who believe that the shared ethnic and cultural ties between the people of Mizoram and Myanmar call for a compassionate approach. However, the situation also demands a pragmatic response to ensure that the inflow of refugees does not strain the state’s resources and create social tensions.
The pilot project for biometric data collection of Myanmar nationals in Mizoram is a crucial step towards managing the ongoing influx effectively. As the state government strives to strike a balance between humanitarian considerations and border security, it is essential to find sustainable solutions that respect the rights and dignity of the refugees while also addressing the concerns of the local population.
In addition to providing immediate relief to those seeking shelter, the government should work with relevant authorities and international organizations to explore long-term solutions that address the root causes of the crisis in Myanmar and prevent future influxes. Only through collaborative efforts and empathetic policies can the region find a path toward stability and security for all its inhabitants.
