A fresh wave of displacement has hit the India-Myanmar border, with dozens of civilians fleeing escalating violence in Myanmar's Chin state. At least 47 refugees, comprising 11 families, have crossed into Mizoram seeking safety from a military offensive launched ahead of the ruling junta's planned elections.
Flight from Conflict to Shelter in Vaphai
The refugees, originating from Falam township in Chin state, began their perilous journey on Friday night. They entered India through the Saikhumphai hamlet, with the last group arriving on Monday night. Initially given temporary refuge in a school building in Saikhumphai, the entire group was relocated on Monday to Vaphai village in southern Champhai district, where they are now housed in the local community hall.
Village leaders in Vaphai confirmed the influx to media sources, detailing the sequential arrival of the displaced families. The relocation was organized to provide more sustainable shelter and facilities for the group, which includes men, women, and children.
Intensified Fighting Triggers Exodus
The refugees reported that their flight was prompted by a severe escalation in hostilities between the Myanmar army, known as the Tatmadaw, and local militia groups. Fighting intensified in Falam town and its surrounding villages, forcing civilians to abandon their homes.
According to their accounts, the Tatmadaw initiated the assault with airstrikes conducted by jet fighters and drones. This was followed by ground troops entering villages. The soldiers allegedly engaged in looting property and setting numerous homes on fire, creating a widespread atmosphere of terror and destruction.
The military buildup reportedly involved large numbers of soldiers moving into Chin state from the adjoining Sagaing division, with a significant push originating from the town of Kalaymyo. This massive offensive appears to be part of a broader strategy to consolidate control.
Fear of More Refugees as Election Deadline Nears
Local leaders in the border villages of Mizoram have expressed deep concern about the potential for a larger humanitarian crisis. They state that they cannot rule out further influxes of refugees into Indian territory in the coming days and weeks.
This fear is rooted in the ongoing and intensifying conflict in key townships of Chin state, including Tedim, Hakha, and Falam. The timing is directly linked to the military junta's determination to conduct elections scheduled for December 28th. Analysts suggest the offensive aims to crush resistance and ensure voter participation in areas with strong anti-junta sentiment.
Mizoram, which shares a long and porous border with Myanmar, has been a primary refuge for thousands fleeing the conflict since the 2021 military coup. The state's communities, many of which share ethnic ties with the Chin people, have repeatedly opened their doors to those escaping the violence, creating a sustained flow of displaced persons into India's northeastern region.
