Aizawl: Zo Re-Unification Organisation (ZORO), a Chin-Kuki-Mizo group representing ethnic Zo or Mizo people of India, Bangladesh and Myanmar, on Wednesday staged demonstrations across Mizoram in protest against the Centre’s decision to lift the Free Movement Regime (FMR) and introduce a new border pass system along the Indo-Myanmar border.
The organization also opposed the proposed border fencing along the 1,643-km-long Indo-Myanmar border.
ZoRO burnt the Central and state governments’ orders imposing restrictions on movement across the border.
The protests were held in Aizawl, Champhai, Serchhip, Lunglei, Kolasib and Myanmar border villages, and Manipur’s Tengnopal.
During the Aizawl rally against FMR cancellation and proposed Indo-Myanmar border fencing, ZoRO leaders stated that the Centre’s unilateral decisions violate the rights of indigenous Mizo people residing in both India and Myanmar.
Expressing disappointment, ZORO Vice President Rohmingthanga Kawlni stated, “We are saddened by the Central government’s decision to cut off communication with our brothers and sisters across the border.”
He also blamed the state government for allegedly backing the Centre and taking immediate steps to implement the new rules.
He said, “We also criticize the state government for supporting this move by issuing the order to abolish FMR.”
ZoRO general secretary L Ramdinliana Renthlei said Mizos on both sides of the border were disturbed by the central government’s announcement to eliminate FMR and construct border fencing.
Renthlei said all the Mizo people do not want the implementation of the discriminatory decision of the Centre.
“If the Indian government proceeds without our consent, we will not be responsible for any consequences,” Renthlei stated.
He affirmed ZoRO’s continued opposition to FMR removal and border fencing, while requesting public support.
“ZORO will continue to resist the lifting of FMR and border fencing, and we will plan stronger actions. We urge all citizens to stand with us.”
He emphasised that Mizos reject the colonial British-drawn international boundaries that separated their people across India, Myanmar and Bangladesh, and will continue to do so.
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The Centre had in December last year introduced a new protocol as per which people living within 10 km on either side will require border pass to cross the border.
The new rules came into effect on January 1.
