Mizoram begins biometric enrollment for over 29,000 Myanmar refugees amid India’s border security measures. On Monday, August 25, 2025, Mizoram Chief Minister K Sapdanga announced that biometric enrollment for over 29,000 Myanmar nationals has started to address illegal immigration concerns, following directives from India’s Ministry of Home Affairs.
Why it Matters
The biometric enrollment of Myanmar refugees in Mizoram highlights India’s efforts to balance humanitarian concerns with national security, particularly in the context of ongoing border fencing debates and regional stability in South Asia.
Biometric Enrollment Underway
The Mizoram government has initiated biometric enrollment for over 29,000 Myanmar nationals who sought refuge in the state since the military coup in Myanmar in February 2021. Chief Minister K Sapdanga confirmed the process, which includes capturing biometric and biographic details, is being conducted in compliance with directives from India’s Ministry of Home Affairs. The initiative aims to identify and monitor illegal immigrants in Mizoram and Manipur. The process involves offline data collection in rural areas to ensure comprehensive coverage.
Addressing Security Concerns
The biometric enrollment follows concerns raised by the central government about potential security risks posed by undocumented immigrants. Reports suggest that some refugees might be involved in illicit activities, prompting stricter monitoring. The decision to collect biometric data was finalised on Sunday, July 20, 2025, marking a shift from earlier resistance by the Mizoram government. The state had previously cited humanitarian reasons for not collecting biometrics, as it could lead to deportation.
Border Fencing Debate
The enrollment coincides with discussions on fencing the 1,643-km India-Myanmar border to curb illegal crossings. The central government has pushed for enhanced border security, including the termination of the Free Movement Regime (FMR) with Myanmar, which allowed visa-free movement up to 16 km across the border. Mizoram has expressed concerns over the fencing, citing cultural and ethnic ties with Myanmar’s Chin community, who share close ties with the Mizos.
Humanitarian vs. Security Balance
Mizoram’s response to the Myanmar refugee crisis reflects a delicate balance between humanitarian obligations and national security. Since the 2021 coup, over 29,000 Myanmar nationals have sought shelter in Mizoram, fleeing political persecution and violence. The state government, led by Chief Minister K Sapdanga, initially resisted biometric enrollment to protect refugees from deportation. However, pressure from the central government and reports of illegal activities have prompted compliance.
Regional Implications
The biometric initiative has broader implications for South Asia, where refugee movements often strain bilateral relations. India’s decision to strengthen border controls could impact its ties with Myanmar, especially as the latter grapples with internal conflict. The process also sets a precedent for other Indian states hosting refugees, such as Manipur, where similar biometric drives are underway. Around 42,000 outsiders have entered Manipur since December 2024, with biometric collection ongoing.
Background
The influx of Myanmar refugees into Mizoram began after the military coup in Myanmar on February 1, 2021, which led to widespread unrest and displacement. Mizoram, sharing a 510-km border with Myanmar, has hosted thousands of refugees, primarily from the Chin community. The central government’s push for biometric enrollment stems from the National Register of Citizens (NRC) framework, aimed at identifying illegal immigrants. Previous reports indicated resistance from Mizoram, with Chief Minister Lalduhoma stating in March 2024 that biometrics would not be collected to avoid deportations. The state’s stance shifted due to central directives and security concerns.
What’s Next
The biometric enrollment of Myanmar refugees in Mizoram is expected to continue over the coming months, with potential expansion to other northeastern states. The data collected will likely inform India’s immigration policies and border security measures. As debates over border fencing and the Free Movement Regime persist, the situation of Myanmar refugees remains a critical issue for both humanitarian and security stakeholders in South Asia.
Published in SouthAsianDesk, August 28th, 2025
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