The state of Mizoram has grappled with an influx of illegal immigrants from Myanmar since a military crackdown in 2001. The prevailing question now arises: will the emergence of a new party in Mizoram, following recent elections, influence the state's stance on repatriating thousands of illegal immigrants from Myanmar? The Zoram People's Movement (ZPM), led by Lalduhoma, secured victory in the elections, marking the first instance of a party other than the Congress or the Mizo National Front (MNF) assuming power in Mizoram.
Mizoram, sharing borders with Myanmar and Bangladesh, has been a critical battleground in the ongoing debate over the repatriation of illegal immigrants. The video footage of Lalduhoma instructing his supporters to chant his name correctly has added an intriguing layer to the dynamics.
The influx of illegal immigrants from Myanmar escalated following the military's overthrow of the democratically-elected government of Aung San Suu Kyi in February 2021. As of September, approximately 60,000 illegal immigrants from Myanmar and Bangladesh sought refuge in Mizoram, with the majority hailing from Myanmar. Despite the central government's request for biometric data collection, the state government, led by Chief Minister Zoramthanga, resisted the initiative.
The Mizos, sharing an ethnic bond with the Chins fleeing the Myanmar military crackdown, view the issue emotionally. Chief Minister Zoramthanga and the MNF aimed to capitalize on this emotive issue during the election, emphasizing the ethnic connection.
The ZPM, while not as vocal on the issue during its campaign, secured widespread support, particularly among the younger demographic, advocating for change and development. However, despite the change in government, the ZPM's stance on Myanmar immigrants aligns closely with its predecessor MNF. The chief of the ZPM, Lalduhoma, expressed solidarity with those coming from Myanmar, emphasizing the emotional bond transcending political lines.
As Mizoram braces for a transition in government, the prevailing sentiment suggests a continuity in the state's approach to the Myanmar immigrant issue. The emotional connection with individuals across the border remains robust, cutting across political affiliations. Despite a new party assuming leadership, the official consensus points toward a status quo in Mizoram's stance on the matter, urging the Centre to maintain a nuanced and empathetic approach rather than adopting an antagonistic stand.
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