Two days after the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) introduced a border pass system allowing limited cross-border movement for residents within 10 km of the India-Myanmar border, the Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI), an apex body representing the Meitei community, strongly opposed the move, calling it detrimental to the state’s security and harmony.
In a statement on Thursday, COCOMI described the December 24 MHA notification as “unfortunate” and urged its immediate withdrawal. Media Coordinator Yumkhaibam Surjit Kumar Khuman alleged that the Assam Rifles was biased and facilitating illegal activities, adding that the border pass system posed a serious threat to Manipur’s communal harmony and integrity.
“Chin-Kuki narco-terrorists and infiltrators from Myanmar have already caused immense harm to Manipur. This order will further jeopardize the state’s security, social harmony, and interests,” Khuman said.
The MHA notification replaces the previously suspended Free Movement Regime (FMR) with a regulated border pass system. It permits residents on both sides of the border to cross for specific purposes such as medical needs, tourism, business, cultural exchange, and official duties. Border passes, valid for one week, would be issued by the Assam Rifles, and strict identity verification would be enforced.
The system restricts movement to within 10 km of the border and is applicable to adults aged 18 and above. Minors must be accompanied by parents. The MHA has mandated deployment of state police and health representatives at designated crossing points to ensure smooth implementation.
Despite these safeguards, COCOMI has expressed strong reservations, urging the government to reconsider the policy in light of its potential impact on the state’s security and stability.
