What Led to the Naga Bodies Enforcing a Trade Embargo Against India-Myanmar Border Fencing?
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Synopsis
In Manipur, the United Naga Council has implemented a trade embargo in Naga-populated areas to protest against the ongoing border fencing with Myanmar and the cancellation of the Free Movement Regime. Discover the implications of these actions and the community's ongoing struggle for their rights.
Key Takeaways
- Trade embargo initiated by UNC in protest.
- Protests occurred along major highways.
- UNC seeks to address the issues through dialogue.
- Fencing impacts historical ties between communities.
- Government and Naga leaders are in ongoing discussions.
Imphal, Sep 9 (NationPress) The United Naga Council (UNC), the leading Naga organization in Manipur, initiated a “trade embargo” in all areas populated by Naga individuals in response to the construction of fencing along the India-Myanmar border and the termination of the Free Movement Regime (FMR).
According to police reports, members of the UNC and various Naga groups organized protests and blockades at multiple locations on the highways, including the Imphal-Dimapur National Highway (NH-2) and the Imphal-Jiribam National Highway (NH-37).
Protest leaders asserted that demonstrations and blockades took place in the districts of Senapati, Chandel, Ukhrul, Noney, and Tamenglong. Numerous trucks carrying goods were left stranded in Senapati, Tamenglong, and other regions.
The Naga populace predominantly resides in the Tamenglong, Chandel, Ukhrul, Kamjong, Noney, and Senapati districts, which are situated along the borders of Nagaland and Myanmar.
A statement from the UNC indicated that the sentiments and position of the Naga people regarding the unilateral cancellation of the FMR and the construction of border fencing have been formally communicated to the Indian government through official memoranda, followed by a series of protests, demonstrations, public rallies, and press releases since January 19, 2024.
The government's indifferent response prompted a more rigorous agitation to assert the firm stance of the Naga people against the nullification of the FMR and the establishment of fencing along the India-Myanmar border to protect the Naga homeland, identity, and inherent land rights, the statement elaborated.
The decision to impose a 'Trade Embargo' for an indefinite period in all Naga-inhabited areas was made during the UNC’s Presidential Council Meeting on August 11, 2025, effective from midnight on September 8.
Meanwhile, an inconclusive meeting occurred on August 26 between officials from the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) and leaders of three Naga organizations in Manipur regarding the reinstatement of the previous FMR and the cessation of the ongoing border fencing.
The MHA team, led by A. K. Mishra, advisor on Northeast Affairs, included a 11-member Naga delegation headed by UNC President Ng. Lorho alongside representatives from the UNC, the All Naga Students' Association, Manipur (ANSAM), and the Naga Women's Union (NWU).
Prior to this, the UNC had issued an ultimatum to the central government and met with Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla on August 16 to discuss the reinstatement of the former FMR and the cessation of border fencing along the 398 km stretch of the India-Myanmar border with Manipur.
Since last year, the UNC and other Naga bodies have been actively protesting against the "unilateral abrogation of the FMR and the construction of border fencing along the India-Myanmar border".
In a related development, Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio, during his Independence Day address in Kohima, expressed his apprehension regarding the Centre’s decision to reduce the FMR along the India-Myanmar border from 16 km to 10 km and limit movement to nine crossing points, urging the Union government to reconsider this sensitive issue.
Last year, the MHA announced the termination of the FMR, which had previously permitted individuals residing along the India-Myanmar border to travel 16 km into each other's territory without a visa.
Instead, a new scheme was proposed to issue passes to border residents from both India and Myanmar residing within 10 km on either side of the border to manage cross-border movements.
During a discussion in the Nagaland Assembly regarding these matters, the Chief Minister indicated that the restrictions on border movement would disrupt the long-standing historical, ethnic, social, cultural, traditional, and economic connections of the Naga people residing on both sides of the India-Myanmar border.
Both Nagaland and Mizoram governments, along with numerous political parties and civil society groups in these northeastern states, have expressed opposition to both the border fencing and the termination of the former FMR.
Four northeastern states—Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Nagaland, and Mizoram—share a 1,643-km unfenced frontier with Myanmar.
The MHA had previously decided to establish fencing along the entire porous border, notorious for the smuggling of arms, ammunition, narcotics, and various other contrabands, at a cost of Rs 31,000 crore.
Point of View
It's crucial to maintain an unbiased perspective on the ongoing situation in Manipur. The trade embargo enforced by the United Naga Council reflects deep-rooted community concerns regarding border policies and rights. It underscores the importance of dialogue between the government and local communities to address these sensitive issues. Our commitment to reporting on these matters remains steadfast, ensuring that all voices are heard in the pursuit of equitable solutions.
NationPress
09/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the trade embargo imposed by the UNC?
The trade embargo is a protest initiated by the United Naga Council against the fencing along the India-Myanmar border and the cancellation of the Free Movement Regime.
Which areas are affected by the embargo?
The embargo affects all areas inhabited by Naga people in Manipur.
What prompted the Naga bodies to take this action?
The action was prompted by the unilateral abrogation of the Free Movement Regime and the construction of border fencing.
How has the government responded to these protests?
The government's response has included inconclusive meetings with Naga leaders and an ongoing dialogue about the situation.
What are the broader implications of this situation?
The situation raises concerns about the rights and identity of the Naga community, as well as the historical ties between the people on both sides of the border.
