Months after suspending the Free Movement Regime (FMR) along the Myanmar border, the Union Home Ministry (MHA) has introduced a new protocol to regulate the movement of people living within 10 kilometers on either side of the largely unfenced international border.

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About Free Movement Regime (FMR)

• FMR permits hill tribes from both India and Myanmar to travel freely within a specified range along the Indo-Myanmar Border (IMB).
• Border Crossing: Allowed with a border pass valid for one year, issued by a competent authority.
• Duration of Stay: Visitors can stay for up to two weeks per visit.
• Implementation: Initiated in 2018 as part of the Central Government’s Act East policy.

New Guidelines for Cross-Border Movement

• Border Pass: Issued by Assam Rifles for a stay of up to seven days in the neighboring country.
  • Includes a photograph, QR code, and biometrics; must be returned upon completion of the visit.
• Entry Process: Individuals must report at designated points, complete documentation, and undergo security and health checks.
• Verification: Police will verify details on the border pass, and violations will lead to legal action.
• Implementation Phases: Initial activation of eight pilot entry points, followed by 14 more after biometric systems are installed, with the remainder dependent on infrastructure readiness.

Reasons for Tightening Guidelines

• Internal Security: Aimed at maintaining the demographic balance and preventing unregulated cross-border movement.
• Ethnic Violence in Manipur: Movement across the border has been linked to violence in Manipur, which has resulted in over 250 fatalities since May 2023.
• Political and Social Pressure: Influences from political and civil society groups prompted stricter measures rather than complete removal of the FMR.

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Issues with Previous FMR Implementation

• Lack of Standardized Documentation: Absence of uniform border passes or recognition by both countries.
• Implementation Gaps: Border passes were managed by state officials instead of a unified protocol.
• Proposed Solutions: Plans include constructing a fence along the Indo-Myanmar border to enhance security and streamline movement.

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