The proposed border fencing between Manipur and Myanmar has ignited fresh disputes, with the Meitei-led COCOMI demanding stringent border security to prevent cross-border militancy. Meanwhile, the Kuki-Zo community protests the decision, citing cultural ties and opposing the scrapping of the Free Movement Regime (FMR
By PC Bureau
The contentious issue of border fencing between Manipur and Myanmar has become the latest flashpoint in the ongoing conflict between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities in Manipur.
The Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI), representing the Meitei community, has demanded stringent measures to prevent the influx of armed groups across the porous border. COCOMI alleges that ethnic rebel groups from Myanmar are fueling unrest in the state and has called for immediate action to secure the Indo-Myanmar border and dismantle militant infrastructure.
In a statement, COCOMI urged the central government to address illegal infiltration, poppy cultivation, arms trafficking, and drug smuggling, while also restoring the demographic balance in Manipur. The committee accused both the central and state governments of failing to protect the state’s territorial sovereignty, claiming that inaction has enabled cross-border militant activity and exacerbated the conflict.
“Decisive action is required to dismantle militant infrastructure and restore order within a stipulated time,” COCOMI said. It also called for transparency in investigating alleged collusion between security forces and Kuki armed groups.
COCOMI has termed the ongoing conflict “Kuki Aggression under the Disguise of India’s Proxy War,” alleging that the India-Myanmar border has been mismanaged to the detriment of Manipur’s stability.
On the other hand, the Kuki-Zo community has strongly opposed the government’s move to scrap the India-Myanmar Free Movement Regime (FMR) and erect border fencing. The United Zou Organisation (UZO) organized a protest in Manipur’s Churachandpur district on Tuesday, opposing the decision.
Demonstrators carried placards with slogans such as “No Border Fencing Can Break Our Cultural Ties,” emphasizing the deep-rooted connections between communities on both sides of the border. Leaders of the Kuki-Zo tribes, including Saikot MLA Paolienlal Haokip, Henglep MLA Letzamang Haokip, and Singngat MLA Chinlunthang, addressed the gathering.
The protest also included a minute of silence in remembrance of the over 250 lives lost in ethnic violence since May 2023. Leaders from organizations such as the Kuki Inpi Manipur, Zomi Council, and Hmar Inpui highlighted their opposition to curbs on cross-border movement, citing the cultural and economic ties shared between Manipur and Myanmar.
As tensions escalate, the demand for clarity and decisive action from the government has grown louder. Both sides continue to stand firm, with the border fencing issue becoming a critical battleground in Manipur’s prolonged ethnic strife.
