Nagaland assembly adopts resolution on FMR; asks Centre to reconsider decision

The Nagaland legislative assembly has unanimously adopted a resolution against the central government’s decision to fence the Indo-Myanmar border and suspend the Free Movement Regime (FMR) agreement with Myanmar. This resolution reflects the concerns of the Naga people regarding the disruption of historical, social, tribal, and economic ties caused by these measures.

Resolution Highlights

• Unanimous Adoption: The resolution was adopted unanimously through a voice vote in the Nagaland legislative assembly, making Nagaland the second state after Mizoram to oppose the scrapping of FMR.

• FMR Suspension Impact: The resolution underscores the adverse impacts of suspending the FMR, which allows border residents to travel 16 km into each other’s territory without visas. It emphasizes the disruption to daily activities, particularly cultivation, and the traditional land-holding system that spans the international border.
• Appeal for Reconsideration: The assembly appeals to the Government of India to reconsider its decision and abandon plans for FMR suspension and border fencing. It stresses the importance of preserving the unique historical, social, tribal, and economic ties of the Naga people living on both sides of the border.

• Regulations Consultation: Additionally, the resolution urges the Centre to develop regulations for cross-border movement in consultation with local inhabitants and involve village council authorities in the regulatory process. This approach aims to address the concerns of border communities while ensuring effective border management.