Are Myanmar Refugees Returning Home from Mizoram?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
As the situation stabilizes in their homeland, Myanmar refugees are now making their way back from Mizoram. This article delves into the return journey of over 4,600 displaced individuals, the circumstances behind their initial escape, and the ongoing efforts of the Mizoram government to document their presence.
Key Takeaways
- Myanmar refugees are returning home as conditions normalize.
- Over 4,600 individuals found refuge in Mizoram.
- The Mizoram government is initiating a biometric data collection exercise.
- Refugees primarily hail from the Chin state of Myanmar.
- Mizoram shares a 510 km border with Myanmar.
Aizawl, July 15 (NationPress) The Myanmar refugees who recently sought refuge in Mizoram have begun their return to their homeland as conditions in their villages have stabilized, officials reported on Tuesday.
According to sources from Champhai district in eastern Mizoram, approximately 4,653 Myanmar refugees, comprising women and children, had found shelter in Mizoram following intense confrontations between the Chin National Defence Force (CNDF) and the Chinland Defence Force (CDF) aimed at territorial control between June 28 and July 5.
A senior official from the Mizoram government indicated that as the CNDF has pulled back from the Myanmar villages near the Zokhawthar border, those displaced are now returning to their homes across the border.
Out of the 4,653 Myanmar refugees, 3,867 took refuge in Zokhawthar, while 786 were sheltered in Vaphai and Saikhumphai villages within Champhai district. Approximately 500 refugees resided in relief camps, with the others staying with relatives and friends, according to the official.
The refugees originated from three villages in Myanmar's Chin state: Khawmawi, Rihkhawdar, and Lianhna. The Assam Rifles are actively patrolling the India-Myanmar border, enhancing security measures to curb drug smuggling and the movement of militants. However, Myanmar nationals wishing to enter India and find refuge in Mizoram are permitted to do so on humanitarian grounds. Following the military coup in Myanmar in February 2021, the influx of refugees, including women and children, has surged, reaching approximately 35,000.
Predominantly from the Chin tribes, these refugees share significant ethnic and cultural ties with the majority Mizo population of Mizoram and are currently residing in camps spread across the 11 districts of the northeastern state, which has a porous 510 km border with Myanmar.
In related news, the Mizoram government has initiated plans to gather biometric and demographic data of the Myanmar refugees residing in the state post the military coup of February 2021.
A Home Department official stated that the extensive data collection project, aimed at documenting about 35,000 Myanmar refugees, is set to commence by the end of this month. This biometric process will utilize the Foreigner Identification Portal and will be conducted across all 11 districts of Mizoram.
According to the official, a budget of Rs 38 lakh has been allocated for this initiative, with funding provided by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA). The data collection will be executed by district administrations under the oversight of Deputy Commissioners.
Point of View
The return of Myanmar refugees underscores the humanitarian efforts extended by India, particularly Mizoram, in response to regional conflicts. This delicate situation highlights the need for continued vigilance and support for displaced communities while balancing national security interests.
NationPress
24/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Myanmar refugees flee to Mizoram?
Myanmar refugees fled to Mizoram due to violent conflicts involving anti-military ethnic groups, which jeopardized their safety.
How many refugees are currently in Mizoram?
Currently, approximately 35,000 Myanmar refugees are sheltering in Mizoram.
What measures is the Mizoram government taking for refugees?
The Mizoram government is collecting biometric and demographic data of Myanmar refugees to better understand and assist the displaced population.
What is the ethnic background of the refugees?
The majority of the refugees are from the Chin tribes, sharing cultural similarities with the Mizos of Mizoram.
What prompted the return of refugees to Myanmar?
The return of refugees was prompted by the stabilization of conditions in their home villages following the withdrawal of conflict forces.
