Authorities have intensified security measures and imposed stricter movement regulations along the 510-kilometer unfenced Mizoram-Myanmar border. Residents living within a 10-kilometer radius on either side of the border are now required to obtain a border pass to cross into the neighboring country.
Guwahati: Authorities have intensified security measures and imposed stricter movement regulations along the 510-kilometer unfenced Mizoram-Myanmar border. Residents living within a 10-kilometer radius on either side of the border are now required to obtain a border pass to cross into the neighboring country. This action follows new directives issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA).A senior official explained that the border pass system, introduced on December 31, allows both Indian and Myanmarese citizens to visit each other for up to seven days. Applicants must present proof of residence within the designated 10-kilometer limit. The pass aims to regulate border crossings more effectively while maintaining the security of both nations.The initiative involves coordinated efforts between state police, Assam Rifles, and health officials. Specific entry and exit points, such as Zokhawthar and Hnahlan, are being monitored to ensure compliance with the new guidelines. According to Champhai district police, the new border management policy requires individuals seeking to cross the border to provide identity documents certified by local authorities, such as police officers or village chiefs, valid for one year. The border pass itself remains valid for seven days.The designated crossing points will operate from Monday to Saturday between 6 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. Only one adult may be issued a single border pass, with minors required to be accompanied by a parent. A single pass can include up to three children; additional passes are needed for larger families.In December 2024, the MHA revised the Free Movement Regime (FMR), reducing the range of free travel from 16 kilometers to 10 kilometers. Although Union Home Minister Amit Shah previously announced plans to abolish the FMR entirely, an official notification is yet to be issued.Under the new protocol, Assam Rifles, responsible for guarding the Indo-Myanmar border, will handle border pass issuance. Applicants must report to designated points, complete a form, and undergo document verification, security checks by state police, and health screenings. Border passes will be biometric-enabled, featuring a photograph and QR code, and must be surrendered upon return within the seven-day timeframe.The Indo-Myanmar Border portal will store all applicant data. Authorities will conduct follow-up checks to verify visits, and any violations of the guidelines will result in legal action. The Assam Rifles and local police are tasked with ensuring that border movements adhere strictly to the new rules, enhancing both border management and regional security.Mizoram shares its border with Myanmar’s Chin State through six districts—Champhai, Siaha, Lawngtlai, Hnahthial, Saitual, and Serchhip. The reinforced measures reflect a proactive approach to managing border dynamics while maintaining humanitarian considerations for border communities that rely on cross-border movement for daily life and trade.The introduction of the border pass system marks a significant shift in policy aimed at better monitoring and regulating cross-border travel, ensuring that security and health standards are upheld amid growing concerns in the region.
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