The Mizoram government is considering a plan to confiscate the identity cards of Myanmar refugees who repeatedly cross the international border between the two countries. This measure is being contemplated in response to concerns that some refugees are exploiting the crisis in Myanmar by frequently traveling back and forth, and in some instances, violating local laws.

Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma raised this issue during a meeting with Surinder Bhagat, Joint Secretary in the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), in Aizawl. Lalduhoma acknowledged that while many refugees are law-abiding, a segment of them are repeatedly crossing the border, taking advantage of the situation in Myanmar. He stated that the state government intends to take strong action against refugees who misbehave and violate laws, including the potential seizure of their Myanmar-issued identity cards upon their entry into Mizoram.

In addition to the ID confiscation proposal, the Mizoram government is also planning to collect biometric data from all Myanmar refugees taking shelter in the state. This initiative is likely to begin in July and aims to enhance monitoring and regulation efforts.

The Chief Minister also addressed the issue of illegal overseas recruitment by placement agencies within the state. Lalduhoma said that licenses for fraudulent agencies have already been canceled by the state government. He stressed the need to obtain prosecution sanction orders from the Protector General of Emigrants against these agencies and urged stronger action.

Surinder Bhagat, who also serves as the Protector General of Emigrants, acknowledged the problem of fake recruitment agents who send Indian nationals abroad under false pretenses and exploit them. He advised job-seekers to exercise caution when seeking employment opportunities abroad and to verify the credentials of placement agencies. Bhagat also indicated that the central government is likely to initiate a recruitment drive to facilitate employment opportunities for Indian youths in Taiwan.

These measures by the Mizoram government reflect a dual approach of providing refuge to those fleeing the crisis in Myanmar while also addressing concerns about cross-border movement and potential illegal activities. The proposed confiscation of identity cards and biometric data collection are aimed at improving monitoring and ensuring that refugees comply with local laws during their stay in Mizoram.