Myanmar Army Soldiers Enter India, Mizoram Seeks Immediate Help from the Centre

Amidst intensified clashes between rebel forces and the Myanmar junta-regime, nearly 600 Myanmar Army soldiers have sought refuge in India’s Mizoram state. The soldiers crossed into India following confrontations with Arakan Army militants in Myanmar’s Rakhine state, reported various media outlets.

Key Points:

1. Influx of Soldiers: Approximately 600 Myanmar Army personnel crossed into India and sought shelter in Mizoram’s Lawngtlai district after clashes with Arakan Army militants.
2. Arakan Army Offensive: The soldiers fled as Arakan Army (AA) militants, an ethnic armed group in Myanmar’s Rakhine state, captured their camps.
3. Assam Rifles Camp: The Myanmar soldiers are currently being housed in an Assam Rifles camp in Mizoram.
4. Alert to Centre: The Mizoram government has alerted the central government about the situation, urging swift action to repatriate the Myanmar Army personnel.
5. Urgent Talks: Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma engaged in urgent discussions with Union Home Minister Amit Shah during the Northeastern Council meeting in Shillong.
6. Repatriation Plea: Mizoram emphasized the need for a prompt repatriation of Myanmar Army personnel for regional stability.
7. Humanitarian Grounds: Chief Minister Lalduhoma highlighted that Myanmar soldiers seeking shelter are being assisted on humanitarian grounds.
8. Previous Repatriation: Mizoram had previously sent around 450 army personnel back to Myanmar.
9. Myanmar Junta’s Challenge: Myanmar’s junta is facing a significant challenge following coordinated offensives by ethnic minority forces since late October 2023.
10. Escalating Tensions: The situation raises concerns about escalating tensions and the potential impact on the stability of the region.