Mon Dec 23 21:10:33 UTC 2024: ## India Tightens Border Security in Northeast, Revokes Foreigner Travel Relaxation
**NEW DELHI, December 24, 2024** – The Indian Union Home Ministry has significantly tightened security measures along its borders with Myanmar, ordering increased surveillance of foreign visitors in Nagaland, Mizoram, and Manipur. A December 17th circular instructed state governments to strengthen monitoring mechanisms for foreigners, citing growing security concerns in the border regions.
The move reverses a 14-year relaxation of the Protected Area Permit (PAP) system, which allowed foreigners to enter these states without special permits. The exemption, in place since 2010, has been withdrawn, requiring all foreign visitors to obtain PAPs. The ministry stated that the decision was made in response to escalating security risks.
To streamline the process, all PAP/RAP (Restricted Area Permit) applications will now be processed exclusively through the e-FRRO portal, eliminating the issuance of physical permits. Pending applications will be transferred to the online platform.
The Manipur government, in a separate statement, linked the reimposition of the PAR regime to the influx of people from neighboring countries, a concern exacerbated by ongoing ethnic violence within the state. This violence, between the Kuki-Zo and Meitei communities, has resulted in over 250 deaths and the displacement of approximately 60,000 people since May 3, 2023.
The Home Ministry’s directive emphasizes the importance of close monitoring by police and security agencies, urging them to take appropriate action against any suspicious activity under relevant laws, including the Foreigners Act. All state authorities have been instructed to ensure immediate compliance with the new regulations.
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