India is closely monitoring escalating tensions along the India-Myanmar border as fresh clashes between rival Chin insurgent groups in Myanmar’s Chin State have sparked a renewed humanitarian crisis. Intelligence sources have confirmed that at least 3,000 civilians have fled into Zorkhawtar in Mizoram’s Champhai district over the past five days, raising serious concerns for both national security and humanitarian response systems.
The latest round of armed conflict has erupted around Rikhawdar in Falam district of Myanmar, where gunfire exchanges have been ongoing since July 1. “The fighting has intensified as the Chin Brotherhood Alliance attempts to maintain control of this strategically vital region amid a strong offensive launched by the Chin National Army (CNA),” an Indian intelligence officer said.
Sources indicate that the CNA has mobilized additional forces from Camp Victoria (also known as Chinlung), its principal base, to bolster its position near Rikhawdar.
India steps up border surveillance, crisis response
In response, Indian security forces have ramped up surveillance along the international border, and central agencies are in constant communication with the Mizoram state government. With the refugee count rising, preparations are underway to handle a potential surge in displaced persons seeking shelter on Indian soil.
Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma has flown to New Delhi for urgent consultations with top national security officials. He is scheduled to meet with the Union Ministry of Home Affairs on Monday to discuss contingency measures, including refugee accommodation, border management, and regional security.
Strategic shifts in Chin state add to India’s worry
The Chin Brotherhood Alliance—an umbrella of anti-junta armed groups formed after Myanmar’s 2021 military coup—has made major territorial gains in recent months. These include the Chin National Organization/Chin National Defence Force (CNO/CNDF), Chinland Defence Force-Mindat (CDF-Mindat), Kanpetlet CDF, Zomi Federal Union/People’s Defence Force-Zoland (ZFU/PDF-Zoland), and CDF Matupi, Brigade 1.
Their joint offensive began on November 9, 2024, targeting Falam, a key hilltop town along the land corridor between Hakha and Kalay in Myanmar’s Sagaing Region. After five months of sustained fighting, the alliance took control of several major installations, including army posts, a police station, and administrative offices.
At present, the Chin Brotherhood Alliance controls four of Chin State’s nine townships—Matupi, Mindat, Kanpetlet, and Falam. The Arakan Army controls Paletwa Township, and the CNA-dominated Chinland Council seized Tonzang town in Falam district last year.
India faces dual challenge: Security and refugee management
The Indian government is particularly concerned about the twin challenges posed by the situation—preventing cross-border militant infiltration and managing a growing refugee crisis. With the region’s strategic location and ongoing conflict dynamics in Myanmar, officials warn of potential ripple effects on border security and stability in northeastern states.
“As the situation evolves, India must stay vigilant and proactive to address both the humanitarian and national security implications,” a senior Home Ministry official stated.
