The civil war in Myanmar has had significant repercussions in India’s northeastern states, particularly Mizoram, leading to a humanitarian crisis and complex geopolitical dynamics.
Reasons for Fleeing to Mizoram:
1. Civil War in Myanmar: The ongoing civil war in Myanmar, particularly in Chin State, has forced many to seek refuge in neighboring Mizoram.
2. Ethnic Ties: The people of Mizoram share ethnic ties with the Chin community, making Mizoram a natural refuge for those fleeing Myanmar.
3. Violent Crackdowns: The Myanmar military’s crackdown on ethnic armed organizations and pro-democracy militias in Chin State has intensified the conflict, leading to displacement.
Ethnic Organizations’ Response:
Support for Anti-Coup Militias: Ethnic groups like the Karen, Kachin, Chin, and Karenni have supported anti-coup militias, aligning with the National Unity Government (NUG).
Diverse Reactions: Other ethnic armed groups have varied responses, with some maintaining ceasefires with the junta and others, like the Brotherhood Alliance, actively engaging against junta forces.
China’s Reaction:
Strategic Interest: China, while publicly advocating for cessation of hostilities, has strategic interests in the region and exerts influence over some northern ethnic armed forces.
Tolerance of Rebel Actions: China appears to tolerate the actions of rebels, particularly those targeting illicit activities like cybercrime centers in Kokang.
Impact on Northeast India:
Refugee Influx: The conflict has led to a significant influx of refugees into Mizoram and Manipur, with the Mizoram government defying central orders to deport them, citing ethnic kinship.
Heightened Ethnic Tensions: In Manipur, the influx has exacerbated ethnic tensions between the Kuki-Zo community and the majority Meiteis.
The situation reflects the complex interplay of ethnic solidarity, regional geopolitics, and the humanitarian crisis resulting from Myanmar’s internal conflict.
SRIRAM’s
