Myanmar is reportedly considering summoning the Indian ambassador following recent developments involving Mizoram MP K. Vanlalvena’s visit to Myanmar and interactions with ethnic armed groups.
BY PC Bureau
Tensions along the Myanmar-India border have escalated following a series of statements and diplomatic exchanges that have stirred controversy in both nations.
The dispute intensified after Rajya Sabha MP Maharaja Sanajaoba Leishemba proposed the reclamation of the Kabaw Valley — a 22,000 sq km resource-rich region in Myanmar’s Sagaing Region.
Speaking in the Upper House, the MP argued that the valley had been part of Manipur’s territory since 1450 before being ceded to Myanmar in 1953 by then-Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru during a meeting with Burmese leader U Nu. He urged the Indian government to explore the feasibility of reclaiming the territory or seeking compensation from Myanmar.
This move preceded a visit by Mizo National Fron MP K. Vanlalvena, to the Chinland Council in Myanmar. During the visit, the MP called on border areas with ethnic ties to Mizoram to consider joining India, further straining diplomatic relations.
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In response, Myanmar’s junta spokesperson, Major General Zaw Min Tun, warned foreign politicians against actions “driven by self-interest” that could damage bilateral relations. He emphasized the need to respect Myanmar’s sovereignty and indicated that further statements on the matter would follow, reports The Irrawaddy.
Pro-junta media outlet NP News reported that Myanmar’s government is considering summoning the Indian ambassador for discussions on the issue. As of now, the Indian Embassy in Myanmar has not commented on the situation.
In response to reports that Indian politicians had urged that Myanmar ethnic groups and territory become part of India, junta spokesman Zaw Min Tun said politicians should refrain from actions driven by self-interest that could harm bilateral relations. #WhatsHappeningInMyanmar pic.twitter.com/xH6vPEqYzU
— The Irrawaddy (Eng) (@IrrawaddyNews) March 13, 2025
On February 26, Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma facilitated a peace initiative involving rival Chin factions from Myanmar. Leaders from the Chinland Council and the Interim Chin National Consultative Council (ICNCC) convened in Aizawl to sign a merger agreement, forming a unified Chin National Council. This unification aims to consolidate efforts against Myanmar’s military junta and strengthen administrative control over Chin State.
The escalating rhetoric comes as Myanmar’s military regime struggles to maintain control over its borders. Large swathes of territory along its borders with Bangladesh, India, Thailand, and China have fallen to ethnic resistance groups. The junta, led by Min Aung Hlaing, has reportedly ceded more than half the country, including military bases and regional commands, to armed resistance forces.
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Amid these setbacks, Myanmar has sought support from China, which has pressured resistance groups to negotiate truces. In return, Min Aung Hlaing has committed to advancing China’s Belt and Road projects in Myanmar, further deepening Beijing’s influence in the country. Additionally, Myanmar’s recently enacted Private Security Services Law has allowed Chinese private security firms to operate within its borders, raising concerns over national sovereignty.
Simultaneously, regional tensions were exacerbated by a South Korean airstrike accidentally hitting a village in Myanmar during a training exercise. South Korea issued an official apology, and legal action was taken against the pilots responsible. However, the incident highlighted the disparity between South Korea’s response to an accidental strike and the Myanmar junta’s ongoing, deliberate airstrikes targeting civilians, schools, and hospitals.
The junta’s campaign of airstrikes has led to mass civilian casualties, with recent attacks killing a young Karen medic and a family of five, including a 10-year-old girl. Despite widespread condemnation, the regime has shown no remorse for its actions and has continued to prioritize its relationship with China, including pushing forward the Kyaukphyu Special Economic Zone (SEZ) in Rakhine State.
As Min Aung Hlaing navigates complex international alliances, including recent visits to Russia and Belarus, the question remains whether Myanmar’s regime can withstand growing internal resistance while balancing the interests of its powerful foreign backers. The current dispute with India adds yet another layer of complexity to the volatile political landscape of the region.
