Border village chiefs in Chandel oppose Indo-Myanmar fencing project

Fourteen village chiefs from border areas in Chandel district have jointly declared their opposition to the ongoing Indo-Myanmar border fencing project, citing growing public concern over its potential impact on land ownership, cultural identity, and community integrity.
In a joint statement issued after collective deliberation, the chiefs announced a ban on all construction activities related to the border fencing within their respective jurisdictions. They asserted that the project poses serious risks to traditional village boundaries and the long-standing cross-border ties that define their social and cultural landscape.
The chiefs stated that the demarcation and fencing works have created widespread anxiety among villagers, particularly over fears of loss of ancestral land and the division of closely linked families and communities. They resolved to “oppose and prohibit any continuation of the fencing project within their territories.”
Warning of serious consequences, the chiefs said that any authorities, including the Border Roads Task Force (BRTF), who proceed with construction despite their objections would bear full responsibility for any untoward incidents that may follow.
They further urged the Government of India and the concerned agencies to halt all border construction activities until the ongoing demand for a Separate Administration for the Kuki-Zo people is addressed.