Assam Mizoram border dispute
Published on 01 Feb 2025
The boundary dispute between Assam and Mizoram has existed since the formation of Mizoram as a union territory in 1972. Ever since there have been incidents of sporadic violence along the 164.6 km border causing significant security concerns in the region.
Reason for the dispute
The Assam - Mizoram dispute stems from the two notifications passed during British rule. The 1875 notification differentiated Lushai Hills from the plains of Cachar while the 1933 notification demarcated the boundary between Lushai hills and Manipur. While Mizoram believes the boundary to be demarcated on the 1875 notification and Assam follows the 1933 demarcation.
Security implication of the dispute
Interstate conflicts: Frequent clashes along the border generate a sense of mistrust among the states and lead to conflicts between states on multiple fronts.
Example: A violent clash between Assam and Mizoram police in 2021 resulted in several deaths and injuries.
Spread of organized crime along borders: Conflicts can make the borders highly vulnerable to the smuggling of drugs, weapons, counterfeit currency etc.
Example: Border dispute is one of the reasons for the increasing drug mafia in the states of Assam and Mizoram.
Diversion of security resources: The need to maintain security along interstate borders diverts resources from other security challenges.
Example: Deploying Assam and Mizoram police along the border will reduce the number of policemen available to maintain law and order in the state.
Ethnic tension: The border areas are inhabited by Tribals and there is a chance that the border violence can turn into communal violence which can be catastrophic.
Affect regional security: Violence along one border can increase tensions among other borders also creating regional security crises.
Example: Assam also has border disputes with Meghalaya and Nagaland which could be triggered when there is violence along the Mizoram border.
Impact on international relations: Both Assam and Mizoram have borders with Bangladesh. Conflict between the states can result in migration and increased crime which raises tension along the Bangladesh border.
Hinder economic development: Conflicts and security concerns deters investment into both the states thus slowing down the growth of both states.
Example: Assam's efforts to block NH 306, which is considered the lifeline of Mizoram, to bring economic blockade in Mizoram.
Way forward
Assam and Mizoram state governments should work closely to end the dispute rather than politicizing the issue with the central government playing the role of mediator in addressing the dispute. Coordinated patrolling should be strengthened to reduce the influence of militant groups and criminal networks in the region. Local sentiments need to be acknowledged while developing solutions by ensuring local participation in decision-making.