Mizoram, a northeastern state in India, has experienced a fresh influx of refugees due to armed clashes between anti-junta groups in Myanmar’s Chin State. The state has celebrated rail connectivity for the first time, with the completion of the 51.38-kilometre Bairabi-Sairang broad-gauge line. However, Mizoram has also emerged as the country’s first fully literate state with a literacy rate of 98.2%. Mizoram University has an A+ grade from the National Assessment and Accreditation Council, contributing significantly to the region’s academic landscape.
Mizoram hosts over 32,000 refugees from Myanmar, mainly from the adjoining Chin State. The influx began in March 2021, a month after the military coup of February 1. Nearly 5,000 additional refugees from Khawmawi and Rihkhawdar in Chin State entered Zokhawthar village in Champhai district since July 5. The border remains tense due to the armed conflict between the Chin armed groups.
Mizoram’s chief minister, Lalduhoma, referred to a recent statement by the Union home minister that nearly 50% of crimes in Mizoram were committed by refugees. He appealed to all refugee communities to respect the laws of the land and rekindle the spirit of communal harmony handed down to them by their ancestors. Mizoram’s peace was hard won, and it must prevail, balancing the prioritisation of humanitarian needs with logistical prerogativ.
