Myanmar Refugees in Manipur

The civil war in Myanmar has led to an influx of refugees into India, particularly along the Moreh border in Manipur.

Refugee Influx into Manipur

• Since January 27, 2025, approximately 260 Myanmar refugees have sought shelter in India.
• Refugees began arriving in batches from January 9, 2025, due to airstrikes conducted by Myanmar’s military.
• Initially, around 100 individuals sought temporary refuge but returned after the bombings subsided.
• Between January 27 and January 29, an intensified conflict in Myanmar resulted in 261 additional refugees arriving in Manipur, who have yet to return.

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Legal Definition of a Refugee

• As per the 1951 Geneva Convention, a refugee is someone who, owing to a well‐founded fear of persecution based on race, religion, nationality, membership in a particular social group, or political opinion, is outside their country of nationality and unable or unwilling to return due to such fear.

Lack of Legal Provisions for Refugees in India

• Absence of National, Regional, or International Framework : India and most South Asian nations lack a formal refugee policy, and the government has never officially explained this absence. 
  • Refugee management is handled through ad hoc measures rather than structured legal frameworks.

Reason for Lack of legal provision

• Skepticism Towards the 1951 Refugee Convention: India chose not to sign the 1951 Convention or the 1967 Protocol, fearing international interference in domestic affairs.
  • The Partition of 1947 and its social upheaval did not fit the Convention’s definition of state-sponsored persecution, leading to long-standing skepticism toward global refugee policies.
• Historical Experience of Refugee Crises: The 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War brought millions of refugees to India, straining resources. India expected international aid but received minimal support, reinforcing its reluctance to depend on global refugee mechanisms.
• Geopolitical and Security Concerns :  Porous borders, demographic shifts, political instability, and internal security threats make India wary of legally binding refugee commitments. Accepting refugees formally could invite international scrutiny on domestic issues.
• Selective Refugee Policy & Political Influence : India grants asylum based on diplomatic and political considerations rather than universal legal principles. The government selectively provides protection, often influenced by religion, nationality, and geopolitical interests.

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India-Myanmar Border Overview

• Total Length : 1,643 km
• Shares border with following Indian states: 
  • Arunachal Pradesh : 520 km border with Myanmar.
  • Nagaland : 215 km border with Myanmar.
  • Manipur : 398 km border with Myanmar.
  • Mizoram: 510 km border with Myanmar.

Manipur’s Borders

• Indian States
  • Nagaland: North of Manipur.
  • Assam: West of Manipur.
  • Mizoram: Southwest of Manipur.
• International Borders
  • Myanmar : South and east of Manipur.

Factors Responsible for the Refugee Crisis at the India-Myanmar Border

• Myanmar Civil War & Military Operations:  Ongoing conflict between Myanmar’s military junta and resistance groups, including frequent airstrikes, forces civilians to flee.
• Ethnic Persecution & Violence: Ethnic minorities like the Kuki-Zo face targeted attacks, escalating displacement.
• Political Instability & Insurgencies: The post-coup turmoil has fueled insurgencies, worsening border tensions.
• Unclear Refugee Policy in India : The absence of a formal framework makes managing and integrating refugees difficult.
• Border Clashes & Humanitarian Crisis : Armed conflicts near Manipur and inadequate access to food, shelter, and healthcare exacerbate the crisis.

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Way Forward

• Humanitarian and Security Measures : Set up temporary shelters, provide medical aid, and ensure humane border security.
• Diplomatic and Policy Frameworks: Strengthen diplomatic efforts with Myanmar, ASEAN, and UN agencies; establish a clear refugee policy.
• International and Community Collaboration:  Work with UNHCR and local communities to manage refugee influx and prevent ethnic tensions.
• Long-Term Solutions: Develop rehabilitation plans for economic integration or safe repatriation when conditions improve.
• Conflict Resolution in Myanmar:  India should facilitate peace talks and support democratic restoration to ensure regional stability.

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