Aizawl: In a bid to express dissent against the Indian government’s decision to fence the Indo-Myanmar border, the Zo Re-unification Organisation (ZORO) conveyed their firm stance against the fencing initiative.
During an interaction with media representatives at the Aizawl Press Club, Mizoram, on Thursday, the officials emphasised the potential to sever familial ties and impede the long-cherished dreams of reunification among border communities if the international border is fenced.
Highlighting the historical and cultural connections shared by people residing across the Indo-Myanmar border, ZORO officials underscored the adverse impact of the proposed fencing project, spanning a staggering 1643 kilometers.
They lamented the historical separation enforced by colonial powers, which artificially divided Zo communities, notably the Mizos, across borders.
“The border fencing initiative threatens to extinguish the flame of hope for reunification that has burned in our hearts for generations,” asserted ZORO representatives, reflecting the sentiments echoed by many members of the affected communities.
Of particular concern to ZORO is the potential repercussions of scrapping the Free Movement Regime (FMR), which has facilitated cross-border interactions and marriages among Zo clans. They warned against the imminent upheaval that could result from such policy changes, emphasizing the plight of individuals who may face separation from their partners should the FMR be abolished.
The Mizoram government has emerged as a staunch ally in the battle against border fencing and the abolition of the FMR. Chief Minister Lalduhoma, during discussions with ZORO leaders, expressed optimism regarding exemptions for the Mizoram section of the border from the fencing initiative. Lalduhoma also conveyed his earnest appeals to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah to preserve the existing FMR, underscoring its importance in maintaining social cohesion and harmony among border communities.
In solidarity with their cause, ZORO announced plans for a peaceful rally slated for May 16, 2024, along the Nagaland-Myanmar border, coinciding with similar demonstrations in areas inhabited by Zo clans. This rally aims to amplify the voices of dissent and garner support for the preservation of cross-border ties and the protection of indigenous communities’ rights.
Dear Reader,
Every day, our team at EastMojo travels through rain, rough roads, and remote hills to bring you stories that matter – stories from your town, your people, your Northeast.
We do this because we believe in truthful, independent journalism. No big corporate backing, no government pressure – just honest reporting by local journalists who live and breathe the same air you do.
But to keep doing this work, we need you. Your small contribution helps us pay our reporters fairly, reach places others ignore, and keep asking the tough questions.
If you believe the Northeast deserves its own fearless voice, stand with us.
Support independent journalism. Be a Member.
Thank you,
Karma Paljor
Editor-in-Chief, eastmojo.com
The Mizoram government, alongside civil society organizations and student bodies, has vehemently opposed the Centre’s initiatives, viewing them as detrimental to the socio-cultural fabric of the region.
The Mizoram assembly, in a unanimous resolution passed earlier this year, unequivocally rejected the proposed border fencing and the potential abolition of the FMR, signaling a unified stance against policies perceived as threatening the closely intertwined existence of Zo communities on both sides of the border.
Also Read | Has Mizoram failed to uphold a new system as promised?