Border Security and Identification Measures in Northeastern India

Introduction

Two northeastern Indian states, Assam and Mizoram, have implemented stricter identification measures to control unauthorized cross-border movements from Bangladesh and Myanmar.

Assam's Approach

• Policy Change: The Assam government has decided to issue Aadhaar cards to adult citizens only through the District Commissioners (DCs).
• Objective: To prevent unauthorized Bangladeshi nationals from acquiring Aadhaar cards.
• State Cabinet Discussion: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma reported a cabinet meeting decision to enforce stricter Aadhaar issuance.
• Current Statistics:
  • 103.74% of the population in Barpeta issued Aadhaar cards.
  • 103.48% in Dhubri, 101.74% in Morigaon, and 100.68% in Nagaon.

Mizoram's Strategy

• Proposal: Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma suggested confiscating identity cards of Myanmar nationals crossing into India.
• Rationale: To regulate movements amid Myanmar's civil war.
• Humanitarian Context: Acknowledgment of the crisis forcing many to seek refuge in Mizoram.
• Actions: Seizure of Myanmar-issued IDs for those misusing provisions; collection of biometric data from entrants.