Movement of people across Mizoram-Myanmar border regulated following Centre’s directive: Official

Sun Jan 05 06:05:32 UTC 2025: ## Mizoram Tightens Border Controls with Myanmar, Implementing New Border Pass System

**Aizawl, January 5, 2025** – Mizoram has implemented stricter border controls along its 510-km border with Myanmar, requiring residents within 10 km of the boundary on both sides to obtain a seven-day border pass for cross-border travel. This follows a directive from the Indian Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) and comes amidst the government’s allocation of ₹31,000 crore to fence the entire border.

The new system, initiated on December 31, 2024, involves collaboration between the state police, Assam Rifles, and health officials at designated crossing points. Applicants must provide proof of residence within the 10-km radius, with the border pass issued for a maximum of seven days and one adult per pass, with exceptions for families. Minors must be accompanied by parents. The crossing points will operate from 6 am to 3:30 pm, Monday to Saturday.

While the MHA issued new protocols restricting movement under the Free Movement Regime (FMR) to 10 km (previously 16 km) on December 24th, the FMR itself has not yet been formally scrapped, despite an announcement to that effect by Union Home Minister Amit Shah last February.

The new regulations aim to enhance security and control movement across the porous border shared by six Mizoram districts (Champhai, Siaha, Lawngtlai, Hnahthial, Saitual, and Serchhip) and Myanmar’s Chin State. The Assam Rifles will manage the issuance of passes, including biometric recording and uploading details to a dedicated portal. State police will conduct verification checks, and health officials will provide health screenings. Violation of the new regulations will result in legal action.