IMPHAL, August 16, 2025: The United Naga Council (UNC), the apex body of the Nagas in Manipur, held a meeting with Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla on Saturday to discuss concerns over the scrapping of the Free Movement Regime (FMR) and ongoing border fencing activities along the India–Myanmar border.
During the meeting, the Governor stressed that as border management falls under the jurisdiction of the central government, the involvement of representatives from New Delhi is crucial for meaningful progress. Both sides agreed to reconvene within the next three days for further deliberations.
The UNC has also released the names of its 10-member delegation for upcoming talks with the Government of India. The team will be led by UNC President Ng. Lorho and include senior office bearers such as Vice President N. Gonmei Poujan, General Secretary Vareiyo Shatsang, Information & Publicity Secretary H. James Hau, and Convenor Samson Remei, along with representatives from the Naga Women’s Union (NWU) and the All Naga Students’ Association, Manipur (ANSAM). The delegation is scheduled to meet central officials at Raj Bhavan, Imphal, on August 16.
A statement from the Governor’s Secretariat confirmed that the delegation had urged the Governor to raise their concerns with the Ministry of Home Affairs. Governor Bhalla assured them that the matter had already been taken up at the central level, while appealing to the UNC to maintain peace and restraint as dialogue continues.
The meeting comes against the backdrop of an ultimatum served by the UNC to both the Union and state governments earlier this year. The Council had demanded a rollback of the FMR’s abrogation and a halt to border fencing activities. With the ultimatum expired, the body has warned of intensified agitation within 15 days if its demands are not addressed.
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The Free Movement Regime, which permitted residents along the India–Myanmar border to travel up to 16 kilometres into each other’s territory without visas, was scrapped by the Union Government earlier this year citing national security concerns. The move has drawn sharp criticism from tribal and Naga groups, who view it as a blow to traditional cross-border ties, kinship, and cultural exchanges.
As both sides prepare for the next round of discussions, the issue remains a sensitive flashpoint, balancing national security priorities with the rights and sentiments of borderland communities.
