Agartala, June 04, 2026: Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma on Thursday expressed concern over the steady rise in the number of refugees entering the state from neighbouring Myanmar, stating that the continuing influx has created considerable challenges for the northeastern state.
Addressing reporters on the sidelines of a programme in Shillong, the Chief Minister said the ongoing conflict and instability in Myanmar are forcing large numbers of people to flee their homes and seek shelter in Mizoram.
“The situation across the border remains uncertain, and more displaced people are expected to arrive. The growing refugee population is becoming a serious burden for the state,” Lalduhoma remarked.
His statement comes at a time when the Central Government is moving ahead with plans to fence sections of the India-Myanmar border and strengthen mechanisms to regulate cross-border movement.
Mizoram shares a long international boundary with Myanmar and has been accommodating thousands of refugees since violence escalated following the military takeover in the neighbouring country. Owing to close ethnic and cultural links between communities on both sides of the border, the state has extended humanitarian assistance to those fleeing the conflict.
According to official estimates, over 40,000 Myanmar nationals are currently residing in Mizoram. The state government has also launched a biometric registration exercise to maintain records of the displaced persons taking shelter across various districts.
The increasing refugee population has put additional pressure on public services, infrastructure and local resources, especially in border areas. Officials cite Zokhawthar in Champhai district as one of the most affected locations, with the town’s population swelling significantly due to the arrival of refugees.
While Mizoram continues to provide humanitarian support to those escaping violence, state authorities have repeatedly highlighted the financial and administrative challenges associated with hosting such a large displaced population for an extended period.
In recent years, the Centre has stepped up efforts to enhance border security through fencing projects and stricter border management measures.
