External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar emphasized the government’s commitment to national security as the primary reason behind the decision to fence the Indo-Myanmar border and abolish the Free Movement Regime (FMR). Speaking at the BJP manifesto release in Aizawl, Jaishankar underscored the necessity of precautions due to the prevailing situation in Myanmar, acknowledging the influx of refugees into northeastern states like Mizoram.
Highlighting the sensitivity to border communities’ interests, traditions, and relationships, he clarified that the measures were responses to the current circumstances. The decision to fence the border and end the FMR, taken in February, aims to bolster security along the 1,643-km Indo-Myanmar border, with Mizoram particularly affected. Despite opposition from Mizoram’s government and civil society, the Centre stands firm on its security-driven strategy.