In Manipur's Chandel district, a concerning security breach has been reported with the discovery of a 150-meter section of the Indo-Myanmar border fence cut and damaged. The incident, which authorities suspect occurred on the night of December 2nd, has triggered a swift response from security agencies who have launched an investigation and initiated repair work.
Officials discovered the damage during an inspection on Wednesday, revealing that 64 hollow circular poles and fencing panels between border pillars 67 and 68 had been destroyed. Accessories were also damaged in what authorities have called an act of sabotage. This incident marks the second breach of its kind this year, raising concerns about the effectiveness of border security measures. The previous incident occurred near Moreh at border pillar 77 in August.
The Indo-Myanmar border fencing project is an initiative by the Ministry of Home Affairs aimed at curbing illegal influx, cross-border crimes, weapons smuggling, and drug trafficking. India shares a 1,643-km border with Myanmar, which passes through Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Manipur, and Mizoram. So far, 1,472 km of the border has been demarcated, with fencing work ongoing in vulnerable areas. Until February 2025, over 9 km of fencing had been completed in the Moreh area of the Tengnoupal district. The Border Roads Organisation (BRO) is undertaking the construction, supported by the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) and the Assam Rifles.
An officer from Assam Rifles, who wished to remain anonymous, stated that the area has been secured and repairs will be completed soon. Efforts are underway to identify those involved in the act of vandalism. A First Information Report (FIR) has been registered at Molcham police station.
The incident has brought into focus the opposition to the fencing project from some local communities. The Kuki-Zo communities, in particular, have voiced concerns that the fence disrupts traditional ways of life and affects village lands. Changpol village, a Kuki-Zo inhabited village, is located approximately 200 meters from the international border. Some communities argue that the fencing affects traditional ties and settlements that predate the formal boundary.
Security has been tightened in the area following the incident. The incident has raised serious questions about the vigilance and effectiveness of security forces deployed along the border.
