The scrapping of the Free Movement Regime (FMR) along the Indo-Myanmar border has met with a lot of resistance from people of bordering areas in Nagaland, Mizoram and Manipur. Several places are getting impacted by this decision by the Centre.
This village in Mon district is perhaps the most well-known example of a village divided by the border. The international boundary literally runs through the village chief's house, and many residents have relatives and friends on both sides of the border.
This village in Longleng district is another community that has been severely impacted by the FMR's abolition. Many residents of Wakching have relatives in Myanmar, and the village also served as an important trade center for the region.
This village in Tuensang district is home to a large number of Naga people who have traditionally crossed the border for agricultural activities. The scrapping of the FMR has made it difficult for these villagers to access their farmland in Myanmar.
The district headquarters of Mon district, Mon Town, has also been impacted by the scrapping of the FMR. The town was once a bustling trade center, but the abolition of the FMR has led to a decline in economic activity.
Located on the banks of the Tiau River, Zawngte is a major trade center and has seen a decline in cross-border trade since the FMR ended.
This village is known for its scenic beauty and is a popular tourist destination. However, the lack of cross-border movement has affected tourism in the area.
The largest town in Mizoram, Lunglei, has also seen a decline in economic activity due to the restrictions on cross-border movement.
This town is located near the Myanmar border and has been a key center for cross-border trade. The scrapping of the FMR has severely impacted the livelihoods of many people in Saiha.
While the data on border villages impacted by the decision is not readily available with regards to Manipur, the most prominent place to be impacted is border town Moreh which has served as a major focal point of the relations between India and Myanmar. The FMR scrapping will greatly alter the arrangements in the area.