Naypyidaw, Oct 10: In a bid to bolster security and curb unrestricted migration from Myanmar, the Indian Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) is considering the installation of an advanced smart fence system along a 100-kilometer stretch of the India-Myanmar border. This move is part of the country’s efforts to enhance border monitoring and security measures, as highlighted in its 2022-23 annual report published recently.
The lack of proper fencing and unchecked migration from Myanmar has been identified as contributing factors to ethnic violence in the northeastern state of Manipur. Since May 3, Manipur has witnessed significant unrest, resulting in the loss of at least 175 lives. Research shows that Manipur accounted for 137 out of the 201 insurgency-related incidents recorded in the northeastern states in 2022.
The report notes that Manipur is particularly affected by the activities of various insurgent groups, including Meitei, Naga, Kuki, Zomi, and Hmar groups. A total of 23 underground outfits, organized into two conglomerates—the United Peoples’ Front (UPF) and the Kuki National Organisation (KNO)—have been under the Suspension of Operation (SoO) pact with the Government of India since August 2008.
Additionally, the MHA points to the existence of a Free Movement Regime (FMR) between India and Myanmar. Under this regime, residents living within 16 kilometers of the border on either side are allowed to travel with a border pass (valid for one year) and stay for up to two weeks during each visit. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Manipur suspended the FMR in 2020.
Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh has called for the cancellation of the FMR at the Myanmar border and the completion of the border fencing project. Arunachal Pradesh (520 km), Nagaland (215 km), Manipur (398 km), and Mizoram (510 km) share borders with Myanmar.
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The study reveals that 1,472 kilometers of the overall boundary length have been demarcated. The Border Roads Organisation (BRO) has been entrusted with constructing a 10.023 km border barrier in Moreh, Manipur, with 6.812 km currently completed. The entire project is slated for completion by 2023.
The proposed smart fence system aims to enhance border security, prevent unauthorized entry, and curtail the inflow of individuals from Myanmar into India, particularly in sensitive areas like Manipur. As the Indian government seeks to address the security challenges along its Myanmar border, the installation of advanced technology such as smart fences could play a crucial role in maintaining peace and stability in the region.
