Ministry of Home Affairs Announces Suspension of Free Movement Regime between India and Myanmar

New Delhi:  In a significant move aimed at bolstering internal security and preserving the demographic structure of India’s North Eastern States, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has decided to scrap the Free Movement Regime (FMR) between India and Myanmar.

Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Shri Amit Shah, conveyed this decision in a statement on ‘X’, emphasizing that it aligns with Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Ji’s commitment to securing the nation’s borders.

In his statement, Shri Amit Shah said, “In line with Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Ji’s resolve to ensure the security of our borders, the Ministry of Home Affairs has taken the decision to scrap the Free Movement Regime between India and Myanmar. This step is crucial to safeguard the internal security of our country and to preserve the demographic structure of the North Eastern States that share borders with Myanmar.”

The Free Movement Regime, which allowed easier movement of people across the India-Myanmar border, has been a topic of deliberation due to concerns related to national security and demographic changes in the bordering regions.

Shri Amit Shah further explained, “As the Ministry of External Affairs is actively engaged in the process of scrapping the Free Movement Regime, the Ministry of Home Affairs has recommended the immediate suspension of the FMR. This decision underscores our commitment to fortifying our borders and ensuring the safety and integrity of our nation.”

The move comes as part of a broader strategy to enhance border control measures and address security challenges faced by India’s North Eastern States. The Ministry of Home Affairs is expected to work closely with the Ministry of External Affairs to implement the suspension of the Free Movement Regime effectively.

While this decision underscores the government’s commitment to national security, it is likely to have implications on cross-border movement and will be closely monitored for its impact on bilateral relations between India and Myanmar. The Ministry of Home Affairs is expected to provide further details and updates on the implementation of this significant policy change in the coming weeks.