Did Nearly 3,000 Myanmar Refugees Return to Their Villages?
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Synopsis
In a significant turn of events, nearly 3,000 Myanmar refugees have returned to their home villages after seeking shelter in Mizoram due to armed conflicts. This article explores the implications of their return and the current situation along the India-Myanmar border.
Key Takeaways
- Nearly 3,000 Myanmar refugees have returned home as conditions stabilize.
- The ongoing conflict has resulted in an influx of approximately 35,000 refugees to Mizoram.
- The Mizoram government plans to collect biometric data to aid in the refugees' integration.
- Border security is being enhanced to prevent illicit activities.
- The situation remains fluid, with humanitarian considerations at the forefront.
Aizawl, July 17 (NationPress) Almost 3,000 Myanmar refugees, including women and children, who crossed the unfenced International Border earlier this month due to armed conflicts between two ethnic groups, have now returned to their home villages in Myanmar, officials reported on Thursday.
Approximately 4,653 refugees, including children and women, sought refuge in the border villages of Zokhawthar, Saikhumphai, and Vaiphai in the Champhai district of eastern Mizoram. This influx followed intense clashes between the Chin National Defence Force (CNDF) and the Chinland Defence Force (CDF), both of which are anti-military ethnic groups, that erupted from June 28 to July 5 over territorial control.
The refugees originated from three villages in Myanmar's Chin state: Khawmawi, Rihkhawdar, and Lianhna, arriving during the first half of July.
Sources near the Mizoram-Myanmar border indicated that conditions have stabilized, allowing the refugees to return home.
Of the 4,653 Myanmar refugees, 3,867 sought shelter in Zokhawthar, while 786 found refuge in Vaphai and Saikhumphai villages within the Champhai district.
About 500 refugees were housed in relief camps, while others stayed with friends and relatives, an official noted.
The Assam Rifles are currently securing the India-Myanmar border and have intensified their efforts to curb smuggling and cross-border militant movements.
However, Myanmar nationals wishing to enter India for refuge in Mizoram are permitted to do so on humanitarian grounds.
Since the military coup in Myanmar in February 2021, the number of refugees, including women and children, seeking shelter in Mizoram has surged to approximately 35,000.
Most of these refugees belong to the Chin tribes and share similar ethnic and cultural backgrounds with the majority Mizos of Mizoram. They are currently residing in camps across many districts of the northeastern state, which features a 510-km unfenced border with Myanmar.
Recently, the Mizoram government announced plans to gather biometric and demographic information from the Myanmar refugees, a move initiated following the February 2021 coup.
A Home Department official mentioned that this extensive data collection for around 35,000 refugees is set to commence by the end of this month.
The biometric data will be collected via the Foreigner Identification Portal in all 11 districts of Mizoram.
According to the official, the government has allocated Rs 38 lakh for this project, with costs covered by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA).
The collection will be executed by district administrations under the oversight of Deputy Commissioners.
Point of View
It's crucial to understand the humanitarian implications of the returning refugees. While the situation has calmed, the ongoing conflict in Myanmar remains a concern. We must prioritize the well-being of those affected while ensuring national security.
NationPress
17/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
How many Myanmar refugees have returned home?
Almost 3,000 Myanmar refugees have returned to their villages after seeking temporary shelter in Mizoram.
What caused the influx of refugees into Mizoram?
The influx was prompted by armed clashes between two ethnic armed groups in Myanmar, leading many to seek safety across the border.
What is the current status of the situation along the border?
The situation along the India-Myanmar border is now relatively calm, which has facilitated the return of refugees.
What measures are being taken to support the refugees?
The Mizoram government is collecting biometric and demographic data to better support the refugee population.
How long has the refugee crisis been ongoing?
The crisis has escalated since the military coup in Myanmar in February 2021, leading to a significant increase in the number of refugees.
