Centre must welcome Chin refugees, Mizoram is already doing so

• Military seize of power in Myanmar and ethnic cleansing by the Tatmandaw has forced lakhs of Myanmarese to seek refuge in neighbouring countries.
  • People’s Defence Forces led civil war has further deteoriated the situation.

India on Refugee Influx from Myanmar

• Center has negated to allow refugees from Myanmar
• But, Mizoram has taken in Chin refugees despite MHA advisory.

Rational behind Mizoram’s action

• Mizos and Chins share common history and unique social-political realities
• Share a strong ethnic bond as they come from Zo tribe.
• Bound together by common religion as both form Christian minority
• Mutual empathy and solidarity between Mizos and Chins.
• In 1960s to 1980s, Chin people extended open support to Mizo National Front, fighting for secession from Indian Union.
• During 1988 Mizos helped Chins against repression by Junta.

Way ahead

• India must reach out to restore democracy in Myanmar.
• Centre should help state government to sustain relief work
• Centre should recalibrate its policy toward refugees and their hosts.