Exploring the Free Movement Regime (FMR) between Manipur and Myanmar

Understanding the Free Movement Regime (FMR)

The Free Movement Regime (FMR) is a bilateral arrangement established between India and Myanmar. It enables residents living along the international border to traverse deep into each other's territory, extending up to 16 kilometers, without the need for official documents or visas. This regime became operational in 2018, aiming to facilitate easier movement and strengthen cross-border ties.

Reasons for Suspension in September 2022

In September 2022, the FMR was suspended due to a significant military takeover in Myanmar. This political upheaval led to a surge in refugees fleeing to India, prompting authorities to reassess the operational status of the regime.

Impact on Border States: Manipur and Mizoram

The military takeover in Myanmar and ensuing violence had a profound effect on the bordering Indian states of Manipur and Mizoram. The influx of refugees and the instability in Myanmar directly influenced the security dynamics and governance in these regions.

Challenges Faced by the FMR Since 2018

Since its inception, the FMR has encountered several challenges:

• Violence and Ethnic Tensions: The FMR has exacerbated ethnic tensions, particularly between the Meitei and Kuki communities in Manipur. Disputes over land ownership and reservation policies have sparked violent confrontations.
• Governance Issues: Analysts suggest that governance challenges in Manipur, including perceived biases against certain communities and ineffective law enforcement, have further complicated the situation.
• Cross-Border Linkages: While the FMR aimed to capitalize on cultural and ethnic ties between communities in both regions, it also led to uncontrolled cross-border movements, raising regulatory concerns.
• Internal Displacement: The violence in Manipur has resulted in the internal displacement of various communities, creating humanitarian challenges.
• Potential Impact on India's Act East Policy: The conflicts and obstacles posed by the FMR may affect India's broader Act East Policy, which focuses on enhancing connectivity and relations with Southeast Asian nations.

Understanding the complexities surrounding the Free Movement Regime is crucial for grasping the geopolitical dynamics in the region.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What is the Free Movement Regime (FMR)?
Answer: The Free Movement Regime is an arrangement allowing residents along the India-Myanmar border to travel up to 16 kilometers into each other's territory without visas.

Q2. Why was the FMR suspended in September 2022?
Answer: The FMR was suspended due to a military coup in Myanmar, which caused an influx of refugees into India, prompting security concerns.

Q3. How did the military takeover in Myanmar affect India?
Answer: The takeover led to increased violence and instability, directly impacting border regions like Manipur and Mizoram, and influencing local governance and security.

Q4. What challenges has the FMR faced since its introduction?
Answer: Challenges include ethnic violence, governance issues, uncontrolled cross-border movements, and internal displacement of communities in Manipur.

Q5. What is the significance of the FMR for India's Act East Policy?
Answer: The FMR's challenges may hinder India's Act East Policy, which focuses on strengthening connections with Southeast Asia, impacting regional cooperation.

UPSC Practice MCQs

Question 1: What does the Free Movement Regime (FMR) allow?
A) Travel without visas for 16 kilometers
B) Permanent relocation to Myanmar
C) Employment opportunities across the border
D) Access to government services in Myanmar
Correct Answer: A

Question 2: When was the FMR suspended?
A) September 2021
B) September 2022
C) January 2020
D) March 2023
Correct Answer: B

Question 3: Which communities in Manipur have faced ethnic tensions due to the FMR?
A) Meitei and Kuki
B) Kuki and Naga
C) Meitei and Naga
D) Naga and Manipuri
Correct Answer: A

Question 4: What has increased due to the military takeover in Myanmar?
A) Trade relations
B) Refugee influx into India
C) Diplomatic ties
D) Cultural exchange
Correct Answer: B

Question 5: How does the FMR relate to India's Act East Policy?
A) It promotes tourism
B) It strengthens military ties
C) It could hinder regional connectivity
D) It has no relation
Correct Answer: C

Question 6: What is a major consequence of violence in Manipur due to the FMR?
A) Economic growth
B) Internal displacement of communities
C) Increased tourism
D) Strengthened governance
Correct Answer: B