Mizoram's ZPM slams Indian govt for refusing asylum to Myanmar refugees

AIZAWL: Mizoram's main opposition party Zoram People's Movement (ZPM) today "unequivocally condemned" the actions of the Indian government in blocking asylum seekers from Myanmar from entering the state "and its attempts to deport the ones who are already here."

"Mizoram is the land and family home for the Mizo diaspora in Myanmar as well — a land which is supposed to provide refuge and security to these, our brothers and sisters, in times of adversities — and we firmly believe that no one has the authority or officialdom to restrict asylum seekers who are indeed our kith and kin," the party's youth wing said in a statement today.

A huge number of the Mizo diaspora is spread across Myanmar and we truly empathize with and share their pain and struggles, the release further pointed out, adding that the ZPM Youth "finds it incredibly important not to overlook or neglect our family members during these difficult times."

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Urging the Indian government to withdraw its military forces from the Indo-Myanmar border, withdraw its notification to deport asylees, and offer its apology to the people of Mizoram, it added that while India and Myanmar may have their borders, the consanguineous kinship of the Mizos knows no borders. Be it in Myanmar or under the rule of India, all Mizos share a kindred bond, and we are ready to do whatever it takes to safeguard and protect all Mizos.

It needs mention here that the Union Home Ministry has asked the northeastern states to maintain strict vigil along the Myanmar border so that all possible influx from across the border could be stopped.

In a recent communication to state governments of Manipur, Mizoram, Arunachal Pradesh, and Nagaland, the Home Ministry said that exceptions could be made for those "who flee in extreme situations on humanitarian grounds."

In spite of the Centre's reluctance to admit fleeing Myanmarese people, Mizoram Chief Minister Zoramthanga on Sunday held a virtual meeting with Myanmar Foreign Minister-in-exile Zin Mar Aung of the National League for Democracy. Political refugees from Myanmar have sought asylum in Mizoram since the military coup last month.