A total of 127 refugees, belonging to the Bawm tribe and originating from the Chittagong Hill Tract region in Bangladesh, have sought refuge in six villages within Lawngtlai District, South Mizoram.
According to media report, the influx commenced with the initial group consisting of approximately 124 individuals from 18 families arriving around 2 am on Friday. Subsequently, a second batch followed later in the afternoon, as the refugees fled their homeland in search of safety and security.
The villages extending hospitality to the refugees include Khawmawi, Hruitezawl, Hmawngbu, Bungtlang South, Vathuampui, and select individuals have sought shelter in Chamdur P village.
This recent migration represents a continuation of the movement of the Kuki Chin community from Bangladesh, which began around November 2022 amidst escalating tensions between the Kuki Chin National Army and the Bangladesh army.
Border forces reportedly attempted to deter the refugees at the border; however, swift intervention by non-governmental organisations or NGOs and government officials facilitated their entry into Mizoram, ensuring their safety and well-being.
