Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio emphasized the necessity for in-depth discussions regarding the Centre’s proposal to fence the Bharat-Myanmar border before its execution.
Responding to queries from journalists, Rio highlighted the importance of consulting with the populace on the matter.
“If deemed necessary, we must devise a solution that addresses the concerns of the people while effectively curbing infiltration, given Nagaland’s adjacency to Myanmar and the presence of Nagas on both sides,” he stated.
Rio, a BJP ally, pointed out the agricultural interdependence across the border, stressing the need for a pragmatic approach.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah recently announced plans to restrict free movement along the Bharat-Myanmar border, advocating for its complete fencing akin to the boundary with Bangladesh.
Deputy CM Y Patton revealed intentions for collaborative discussions among Northeastern States sharing the Myanmar border before engaging with the Centre.
However, several Naga civil society groups and the NSCN-IM have raised objections, fearing the proposed measure would fracture the cohesive Naga community residing on both sides of the border.
