Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma has raised serious concerns over the growing Mizoram Myanmar refugee crisis, urging Prime Minister Narendra Modi to extend support to the border state. In an official communication, the CM asked for immediate central assistance to handle the rising humanitarian load caused by thousands of refugees entering Mizoram since the 2021 military coup in Myanmar.
The CM emphasized that while the state has shown deep compassion, the burden on local resources and administrative systems is now overwhelming. He appealed to the Centre to provide funds, policy clarity, and logistical aid to help manage the situation effectively.
Read More: ZPM Flagship Schemes Performance Praised by Mizoram Minister
State Sheltering Over 35,000 Myanmar Nationals
Since the military crackdown began in Myanmar, Mizoram has become a key refuge for those fleeing violence and persecution. According to official estimates, over 35,000 refugees, mostly ethnic Chins with close cultural ties to Mizos, are currently living in relief camps and rented accommodations across multiple districts.
The Mizoram Myanmar refugee crisis has strained the state’s already limited resources. CM Lalduhoma pointed out that Mizoram, despite its small size and constrained budget, has been hosting refugees with dignity and compassion for nearly three years.
He added, “Our people have opened their homes and churches to our Chin brothers and sisters, but we need the Union government’s active support now.”
Central Support Yet to Match State’s Commitment
The Mizoram government has been managing relief operations through state funds and community donations. However, central aid for refugee-specific programs has remained minimal. CM Lalduhoma’s letter emphasized the need for structured funding from the Centre to cover housing, food, education, and healthcare for refugees.
He also requested policy clarity regarding the legal status of refugees. The lack of a coordinated national refugee policy has led to confusion in documentation, rights, and access to services.
Despite being Indian citizens, Mizos are sometimes caught in bureaucratic hurdles when they try to assist refugees on humanitarian grounds. The Chief Minister appealed to PM Modi to treat Mizoram’s unique situation with empathy and urgency.
Impact on Local Economy and Infrastructure
The Mizoram Myanmar refugee crisis has affected not only relief camps but also public services in host communities. Schools, health centers, and local infrastructure are under increasing pressure. Teachers are managing mixed classrooms with refugees and locals, while rural hospitals face medicine shortages.
Local NGOs and churches have helped bridge the gap, but CM Lalduhoma warned that the situation may worsen without structured intervention. “Our hospitality must not become a punishment,” he said. “We are doing our part, but the Centre must also rise to the occasion.”
CM Seeks Special State Package
In addition to refugee assistance, CM Lalduhoma pushed for a special state support package from the Centre. He highlighted the need for increased central allocations under schemes like PMGSY (rural roads), NHM (health), and SSA (education), which are now being stretched thin.
The Chief Minister proposed the creation of a separate refugee relief corpus for northeastern states affected by international migration. He also suggested appointing a central nodal officer to coordinate refugee issues in the region.
Such a measure, according to him, would ease administrative burdens and allow states to focus on maintaining peace and humanitarian assistance.
Cultural Bonds and Moral Responsibility
The CM also reminded the Prime Minister that Mizoram’s bond with the Chin people of Myanmar is not political but cultural and historical. The refugees speak similar languages, follow the same Christian faith, and often share family ties with Mizos.
This emotional and social connection has made Mizoram the first safe haven for Chin refugees. However, CM Lalduhoma stressed that emotional solidarity must now be matched by practical solutions.
He stated that ignoring the Mizoram Myanmar refugee crisis could create long-term instability in the region, affecting not only security but also India’s global humanitarian image.
Law and Order Well Maintained
Despite the influx, Mizoram has maintained communal harmony and law and order. There have been no major clashes or incidents involving the refugees. The Chief Minister credited the peaceful nature of Mizoram’s society and the cooperation of local civil bodies.
He assured the Centre that the state would continue to act responsibly but reiterated that central assistance is crucial for sustaining long-term peace and order.
The Mizoram Myanmar refugee crisis has placed the state at a difficult crossroads—between humanitarian duty and limited capacity. CM Lalduhoma’s appeal to Prime Minister Modi highlights both the moral commitment of the Mizo people and the urgent need for central support. As the crisis continues, the Centre’s response will determine whether Mizoram can maintain its tradition of compassion without being overwhelmed.
Read More: Tripura to Get Tallest Nataraj Statue with Skywalk
