People from all walks of life took out mass public rallies in ENPO areas on Monday against Centre’s decision to fence India-Myanmar border and scrap Free Movement Regime (FMR), which allows cross-border movement up to 16km without visa.
In Kiphire, a large crowd gathered at Kiphire Public Ground to express opposition to border fencing and advocate for FMR. The rally, which saw participation from tribal organizations, students, and general public, was held with the aim to urge the Centre to uphold the FMR.
Speaking at the rally, United Sangtam Students Conference (USSC) executive chairman Aketo V Sangtam highlighted that the Union Home Minister’s announcement to revoke FMR in February 2024 was not applicable to the Nagas, as some Naga communities reside in Myanmar areas beyond the artificial boundary. He said that the bond between Naga brothers and sisters cannot be broken by an artificial boundary.
One of the key demands of the rally included restoration of FMR rights. The public affirmed that proposed border fencing would lead to loss of land and separation of Naga communities, which they said was unacceptable.
Organization such as the United Sangtam Likhum Pumji, Eastern Sumi Kukami Hoho, and Eastern Sumi Hoho, expressed solidarity and support for restoring FMR.
The rally concluded with the submission of a memorandum to the deputy commissioner’s office in Kiphire urging the Centre to reconsider its decision on FMR.
Longleng: The rally at Longleng was organized by the Phom Peoples’ Council (PPC), Phomla Hoichem, and the Phom Students’ Conference (PSC). Tribal representatives from all Naga tribes residing in Longleng district Hq., tribal leaders, schools, student bodies, and citizens participated in the rally.
PSC through its media cell informed that demonstrators called for the protection of indigenous rights, cultural ties, and ancestral land connections across the international border.
Addressing the rally, PPC president YB Angam Phom expressed grave concern over the move. He stressed that border fencing would sever deep familial, social, and economic ties among Nagas living across the borders.
Other speakers including PSC president C Sham-e Phom, Phomla Hoichem president A Ainyu Phom, and ex-minister N. Metpong Phom described the FMR revocation as a grave injustice that threatened the survival of border communities and the broader Naga identity.
They warned that “unilateral revocation” disregarded indigenous realities and undermined the very fabric of Naga society.
The leaders demanded the immediate restoration of FMR and also cautioned that the proposed fencing project would disrupt traditional ways of life and further deepen historical injustices rooted in colonial-era decisions. They reaffirmed that the right to free movement was essential for preserving the unity, dignity, and integrity of the Naga people.