Mizoram is once again facing an influx of refugees from Myanmar due to escalating conflict within the neighboring country. Renewed clashes between armed groups in Myanmar's Chin State have driven hundreds of civilians to seek shelter across the border in Mizoram, India.

In the most recent surge, approximately 300 Myanmar refugees fled to Mizoram's Zokhawthar village following clashes between two Chin insurgent groups. Zokhawthar is located in the Champhai district along the India-Myanmar border. The Assam Rifles have responded by sealing the border gate at Zokhawthar in response to the ongoing tensions.

These recent arrivals add to the already significant number of Myanmar nationals taking refuge in Mizoram. As of now, over 33,000 Myanmar refugees, including around 12,000 children, are being sheltered in various camps and rented accommodations across 11 districts of Mizoram. These individuals have sought refuge in phases since the military takeover in Myanmar in February 2021.

The refugees are primarily from the Chin community, who share ethnic, cultural, and traditional ties with the Mizo people of Mizoram. Six districts of Mizoram, namely Champhai, Siaha, Lawngtlai, Hnahthial, Serchhip, and Saitual, share a 510-km long unfenced border with Myanmar's Chin State, facilitating cross-border movement.

The situation remains tense, with reports of gunfire creating fear among villagers in border areas. A leader of the Young Mizo Association (YMA) in Zokhawthar stated that the YMA has urged armed groups not to direct their fire towards the village, as some houses have already been hit by bullets.

Mizoram is also providing shelter to refugees from other neighboring regions, including Bangladesh and Manipur. Over 2,000 tribals from the Chittagong Hill Tracts of southeast Bangladesh sought refuge in Mizoram in November 2022 due to ethnic troubles. Additionally, around 7,800 refugees belonging to the Kuki-Zo community from Manipur have taken shelter in Mizoram following ethnic violence in Manipur in May of last year.

The Mizoram government and local communities are grappling with the challenges of providing humanitarian assistance to the refugees. The state's resources are strained as they provide shelter, food, and other essential services.