TAG: GS 2: INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS
THE CONTEXT: Recently, the Union Home Minister declares the decision to fence the entire 1,643 km India-Myanmar border to halt free movement.
EXPLANATION:
- The move challenges the existing Free Movement Regime (FMR) agreement implemented in 2018.
Understanding the Free Movement Regime (FMR)
- FMR Concept:
- Mutual Agreement: Implemented in 2018, FMR facilitates tribes living along the border to travel 16 km across the border without a visa.
- Act East Policy: Aligned with the Act East policy, FMR aims to strengthen ties, promote local trade, and address historical divisions caused by the British-drawn border.
Rationale Behind FMR Implementation
- Historical Context:
- British Demarcation: The border drawn by the British in 1826 divided people with shared ethnicity and culture, prompting FMR to foster people-to-people connections.
- Cross-Border Ties: Ethnic and familial ties across the border, intertwined villages, and historical trade relationships motivated the implementation.
Controversies Surrounding FMR
- Ethnic Conflict Dynamics:
- Manipur Conflict: Ongoing ethnic conflicts between Meiteis and Kukis in Manipur intensify debates about the impact of FMR, particularly concerning illegal migration, drug trafficking, and arms trade.
- Manipulated for Political Ends: Accusations fly between Meiteis and Kukis, with each side blaming the other for utilizing the situation for political motives.
Impact of FMR on Migration and Conflict
- Migration Challenges:
- Myanmar Coup Fallout: The military coup in Myanmar prompts large-scale displacement of Myanmarese tribals, adding pressure on the India-Myanmar border.
- Illegal Migration: Manipur reports instances of illegal migration, contributing to the already complex situation amid the ongoing ethnic conflict.
Concerns and Criticisms of FMR
- Security and Narcoterrorism Concerns:
- Insurgent Activity: Insurgent groups exploit unfenced and porous borders, using FMR for arms training, drug smuggling, and illegal activities.
- Increased Narcotics Cases: Manipur witnesses a surge in narcotics-related cases, emphasizing the challenges of border management.
Potential Implications of FMR Removal and Recommendations
- Balancing Act:
- Local Livelihoods: FMR suspension impacts local livelihoods, hindering cross-border trade and essential travel for healthcare and education.
- National Security Challenges: Experts debate the removal’s impact on curtailing illegal immigration, drug trafficking, and addressing security concerns.
- Regulating FMR:
- Need for Regulation: Experts suggest a nuanced approach, emphasizing the necessity to regulate FMR rather than complete removal or full border fencing.
- Complex Border Dynamics: Plugging illegal immigration and controlling drug trafficking across challenging terrain requires a comprehensive strategy.
Conclusion: Striking a Delicate Balance
- Challenges Ahead: Securing the India-Myanmar border demands a careful balance between national security, local livelihoods, and historical ties.
- Policy Imperatives: Policymakers face the task of adopting an approach that addresses security concerns without jeopardizing essential cross-border interactions.