India decides to fence entire border with Myanmar
Indian Home Minister Amit Shah announced that the federal government has resolved to fence the entire India-Myanmar border, following a similar approach as that of the India-Bangladesh border.
Speaking at an event in the northeastern state of Assam, Shah stated that the government is reconsidering the free movement agreement with Myanmar, signaling its termination.
The India-Myanmar border spans 1,643 kilometers (1,020 miles) and traverses multiple states. Currently, a free movement regime is in place between the two countries, allowing citizens residing within 16 kilometers (approximately 10 miles) on both sides of the border to cross with the presentation of border passes.
Given the existing internal ethnic conflict in Myanmar, thousands of individuals have sought refuge by crossing into the Indian side, including both civilians and soldiers. This week, a few hundred soldiers from Myanmar entered the Indian territory.
Indian army chief Gen. Manoj Pande had earlier cautioned about Burmese insurgent groups attempting to enter India, particularly in the northeastern state of Manipur. The decision to fence the entire border is seen as a response to such security concerns and aims to regulate movement more effectively.
Myanmar has been under junta rule since February 2021, leading to significant resistance from ethnic groups across the country. The military, known as Tatmadaw, has faced challenges in various regions, prompting neighboring countries like India to reassess border security measures.
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