A fresh wave of refugees from Myanmar has crossed into Mizoram, India, seeking refuge from intensified armed conflict in the neighboring Chin State. Since July 2, 2025, thousands have fled the escalating clashes between anti-junta armed groups, specifically the Chin National Defence Force (CNDF) and the Chinland Defence Force (CDF)-Hualngoram.
The influx has primarily affected the Zokhawthar village in the Champhai district of Mizoram, a region that has previously witnessed similar movements of Myanmar nationals. Sources within security agencies indicate that villagers are fleeing the exchange of gunfire and mortar shells between the CNDF and CDF-Hualngoram near the border. This prompted the Assam Rifles to seal the border gate at Zokhawthar. Approximately 300 refugees arrived in Zokhawthar on Sunday.
Since the military took over the elected government in Myanmar in 2021, over 30,000 Myanmar nationals have sought shelter in Mizoram. Many are housed in community halls and with relatives. The constant military action against rebel groups and pro-democracy protesters, along with infighting among rebel organizations, has contributed to the continuous influx into Mizoram, a state with a population of approximately 1.3 million.
The Chin and Mizo communities share ethnic ties, and the refugees are often provided shelter on humanitarian grounds. However, the Mizoram government has expressed concern over the increasing number of refugees and their alleged involvement in criminal activities, with claims that they are linked to nearly 50% of reported crimes in the state. Mizoram's Chief Minister, Lalduhoma, has urged the refugees to respect the local laws, culture, and customs to prevent further criminal activity.
Recent reports indicate that over 4,000 Myanmar nationals, including women and children, have entered Mizoram in the past few days, seeking shelter in Champhai district. These refugees come from the Chin State villages of Khawmawi, Rihkhawdar, and Lianhna. They are being accommodated with relatives and in government buildings. Lalmuanpuia Punte, the political advisor to Mizoram’s Chief Minister, confirmed the recent arrivals and assured that the state government would provide food and shelter, similar to what has been provided to previous refugees.
The fighting between the CNDF and CDF, both anti-military ethnic groups, reportedly revolves around territorial domination. The CNDF allegedly seized eight camps of the CDF-H, leading to the displacement. Some injured CDF-H members were reportedly evacuated to Mizoram for medical treatment. Amidst the rising tensions, Lalmuanpuia Punte visited the border area to discuss the situation with leaders from both groups.
Mizoram, already burdened with over 30,000 refugees from Myanmar and around 2,000 from Bangladesh, faces additional strain due to this new influx. The refugees from Bangladesh arrived two years prior, following clashes between an armed ethnic group and Bangladeshi forces. Additionally, thousands of Kuki-Zo tribals displaced by ethnic violence in Manipur have been seeking refuge in Mizoram for the past two years.
The refugees, predominantly Chins, share close ethnic and cultural connections with the Mizo population of Mizoram. Many have relatives across the border, facilitating their accommodation. While the Assam Rifles maintain border security, preventing smuggling and militant movements, Myanmar nationals seeking refuge are generally allowed entry on humanitarian grounds.
