Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma recently stated that foreigners are using Mizoram as a transit route to enter Myanmar for military training. This claim has triggered a major political debate, with former CM Zoramthanga accusing him of using it as a justification for the reimposition of the Protected Area Permit (PAP) in the state.

Lalduhoma’s Statement in Assembly

Addressing the Mizoram Assembly, Lalduhoma revealed that nearly 2,000 foreigners entered Mizoram between June and December 2024, many of whom did not leave any travel records. He alleged that some individuals crossed into Myanmar’s Chin Hills to provide military training to rebel groups.

The CM linked this issue to geopolitical tensions, stating that major powers like China and the US are closely monitoring the situation. According to him, these security concerns led the Central Government to reintroduce the PAP regime in Mizoram.

Zoramthanga Opposes the PAP Reimposition

Former CM Zoramthanga strongly opposed the PAP reimposition, stating that he had resisted such restrictions during his tenure. He argued that while minor border crossings may have occurred, they were not significant enough to warrant such strict measures.

“Such stray incidents happen at borders everywhere, but they are not happening at a large scale. The CM used it as a justification for new restrictions, and I do not agree with it,” Zoramthanga said.

He also criticized Lalduhoma for participating in the merger agreement of Myanmar-based rebel groups, warning that such actions could have serious diplomatic implications.

Understanding the Protected Area Permit (PAP) Rule

The Protected Area Permit (PAP) falls under the Foreigners (Protected Areas) Order, 1958, which restricts foreign nationals from entering certain regions.

• PAP was lifted in 2011 for Mizoram, Nagaland, and Manipur to boost tourism.
• The Central Government reinstated PAP in December 2024, requiring foreigners to obtain special permits before visiting Mizoram.

Zoramthanga pointed out that Lalduhoma’s recent stance contradicts the Zoram People’s Movement (ZPM)’s previous opposition to PAP reimposition, raising questions about his sudden change in position.

Foreign Policy and Diplomatic Concerns

The issue took another turn when India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) stated that foreign policy matters are handled by the Central Government, not state governments.

MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal reiterated India’s official stance, subtly questioning Lalduhoma’s involvement with Myanmar-based groups without the Centre’s approval.

Conclusion: A Growing Political Divide

The debate over Mizoram’s role in Myanmar’s crisis, PAP restrictions, and foreign policy continues to deepen political divisions in the state. While Lalduhoma argues that security concerns justify stricter border control, Zoramthanga maintains that the move will negatively impact tourism and state relations.