Over 5,000 Myanmar Refugees Return from India
Summary
Over the past few days, more than 5,000 Myanmar nationals—primarily civilians—who had previously sought refuge in Manipur’s Kamjong district due to aerial bombardments and internal conflict back home, have returned to Myanmar. Up until now, approximately 2,000 remain in relief camps scattered across border villages. India suspended new refugee entries citing the improving situation in Myanmar. During their stay, biometrics were taken and limited humanitarian aid was provided. This move has garnered criticism from international human rights observers concerned over India’s adherence to non-refoulement norms.
In recent weeks, over 5,000 Myanmar refugees who fled to India’s Manipur state in anticipation of conflict-related violence have begun returning to their homeland. Let’s unpack the story—why they left, how India responded, and what their return actually means.
1. Why Did They Flee?
Since the Myanmar military’s brutal crackdown on pro-democracy groups and ethnic minorities—especially following the February 2021 coup—violence has escalated. Chronic airstrikes, particularly in Chin State and Sagaing Region, sent waves of displaced people fleeing across the porous border. Around May–December 2023 alone, roughly 7,000 refugees sought asylum in villages like Namlee, Wanglee, and Choro in Manipur’s Kamjong district.
2. How Did India Respond?
Registration & Biometrics
Indian authorities, even though India isn’t a signatory to the 1951 Refugee Convention, registered over 6,000 refugees via biometric data—excluding children under five—to differentiate them from locals.
Humanitarian Aid
With the help of Assam Rifles and state agencies, refugees received essential kit such as food, utensils, tarpaulins, buckets, and tin sheets. They also received ID cards to ensure safety and accountability.
Entry Ban
Recently, the Indian government halted new entries, stating that conditions in Myanmar had stabilized. The government framed it as a temporary measure rather than refuge closure.
Global Scrutiny
The decision drew criticism from international bodies like the ICJ, which flagged forced returns as violations of the non-refoulement doctrine—where asylum seekers should not be returned to places where they face danger.
The Return Journey
From the estimated 7,000 refugees in Manipur, around 5,000 have already crossed back, mainly over the last few days. The remaining ~2,000 refugees are still in relief camps, some of whom commute daily to Myanmar to tend their fields, then come back to Manipur’s border villages at night.
FAQs
- Why didn’t India sign the 1951 Refugee Convention?
India has traditionally managed refugee flows via discretionary humanitarian policy rather than binding international law, prioritizing sovereignty and national security. - What does ‘non-refoulement’ mean?
It’s an international law principle that prohibits returning individuals to places where they face threats of torture, persecution, or violence. - Are Myanmar refugees permanent in Manipur?
No. Their stay has been temporary, with India halting new entries and already seeing many returns, driven by restrictions and shifting conditions in Myanmar. - Does the UN help these refugees?
The UNHCR and NGOs typically assist refugees globally. However, India hasn’t requested large-scale UNHCR intervention in this case, relying instead on internal agencies. - Could more refugees return to India in future?
Yes—if conflict reignites or conditions deteriorate, the border could see renewed displacement, though currently India is keeping it tightly sealed.
