In response to the directive from the Union Home Ministry, the Mizoram government has commenced the process of gathering biometric details from Myanmar nationals residing in the state. The move comes as a significant step to address the refugee crisis that unfolded after the military coup in Myanmar in February 2021, leading to the ousting of a democratically elected government.

According to a state home department officer on special duty-cum-joint secretary, David H. Lalthangliana, a pilot project to record biometric data of Myanmar nationals was recently initiated in all 11 districts of Mizoram. Notably, the exercise is being carried out in relief camps to ensure efficiency and accuracy in data collection.

This development comes after an earlier instruction from the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) to both Mizoram and Manipur to compile biometric information of illegal immigrants. However, prior to this directive, the Mizoram government had independently undertaken the profiling of Myanmar nationals and had issued identity cards to them.

It is important to highlight that over 30,000 Myanmar nationals have sought refuge in Mizoram since the political upheaval in their country. The state’s proactive efforts in providing humanitarian assistance to these displaced individuals have been commendable.

Previously, Mizoram Chief Minister Zoramthanga had voiced objections to the Centre’s instructions for deporting Myanmar nationals from the state, signaling the complex nature of the refugee situation.

By initiating this biometric data collection process, the Mizoram government aims to create a comprehensive and systematic record of the displaced Myanmar nationals. This data will not only aid in addressing the current refugee crisis but also contribute to a more informed approach in tackling related challenges and finding suitable solutions.