India’s Myanmar quandary, its Paradoxical Policy

Context: 

Recently, the acting President of Myanmar, Myint Swe, announced the fourth extension of the ‘emergency’ for another six months.

More on News:

• Several political prisoners were released and even reduced the sentences imposed on Daw Aung San Suu Kyi and the deposed President Win Myint.

Image Credits: BBC

Rationale for extension of emergency:

• Military claims extension is due to the failure to establish ‘normalcy’ in large parts of the country.
• Emergency extension hinders proposed elections by the military regime.

India’s Initial Response and Subsequent Concerns in Myanmar

• Early Pandemic and Coup Response
  • Humanitarian Assistance: India provides food and vaccine aid in response to COVID-19 and the coup.
• Fading Concern for Myanmarese Plight
  • Shifting Priorities: Focus on Myanmar’s issues diminishes over time.
  • Accusations and Distractions: Allegations of instigating violence in Manipur divert attention.
• Border Communities and Refugee Shelter
  • Defiance of Home Ministry: Communities along the border offer shelter to refugees despite government concerns.
• Suspension of Free Movement Regime
  • Trafficking and Drug Concerns: Worries over illicit activities lead to the suspension of the Free Movement Regime.
  • Policy Impact: Measures to address security challenges affecting border relations.

Indian Policy of engagement with Myanmar:

• India’s policy toward Myanmar presents a paradox: commitment to democracy vs. security concerns.
  • For example, India’s announcement of the Sairang-Hmawngbuchhuah railway project near the Myanmar border, under India’s Act East Policy, aims to counter China’s railway access in Myanmar through Yunnan and the ambitious China-Myanmar Economic Corridor.
•  The United Nations Special Rapporteur has reported an increase in India’s arms supply to the military since the coup. 
  • Arming the Tatmadaw(Myanmar Military) undermines India’s position on restoring democracy.

India’s Challenge:

• Balancing Humanitarianism and Security
  • Complex Dilemma: Navigating between aiding refugees and addressing security concerns.
  • Policy Challenges: Striking a balance between humanitarian assistance and border stability.

Way Forward:

• Engagement with Pro-Democracy Actors
  • Suu Kyi’s sentence reduction offers an opportunity for India to engage with her and pro-democracy figures.
  • Diplomatic efforts to support democratic values.
• Refugee Treatment and Humanitarian Approach
  • Avoid securitization and profiling of incoming refugees.
  • Foster care, compassion, and a peaceful environment to prevent violence.

                                           News Source: The Hindu