FMR with Myanmar

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.

Enroll now for UPSC Online Classes

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.

Check Out UPSC NCERT Textbooks From PW Store

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.