In a show of solidarity, thousands of people belonging to the Kuki Zo tribe took to the streets in Manipur and Mizoram to protest against the Indian government's decision to cancel the Free Movement Regime with Myanmar and erect fencing on the border. The decision was made to address the issue of illegal immigration, which has been blamed for the ethnic strife in Manipur, that has resulted in the deaths of over 200 people. The protests, organised by various tribal organisations, aimed to send a message to the government to reconsider their decision and preserve the unique culture and identity of the Kuki Zo community.
Manipur Protests Against Fencing Along Myanmar Border
Background:
The Kuki Zo tribe, an indigenous community inhabiting the hill region of Manipur and Mizoram, has a long history of close ties with Myanmar. For centuries, they have enjoyed free movement across the border, known as the Free Movement Regime (FMR). However, in 2021, the Indian government decided to cancel the FMR and erect a fence along the border, citing concerns about illegal immigration and ethnic strife.
Protests:
The decision sparked widespread protests among the Kuki Zo community. Thousands of people took to the streets in Manipur and Mizoram, expressing their anger and demanding the government reconsider its decision. The protests were organized by various tribal organizations, who argued that the fencing would disrupt their cultural and economic ties with Myanmar and undermine their way of life.
Reasons for Protest:
The Kuki Zo protests stem from several concerns:
Government Response:
The Indian government has defended its decision to cancel the FMR and erect fencing, citing the need to address illegal immigration and security concerns. The government has also stated that it remains committed to safeguarding the rights of the indigenous communities along the border.
Top 5 FAQs and Answers:
1. Why did the Indian government cancel the FMR with Myanmar? To address concerns about illegal immigration and ethnic strife.
2. What impact would the fencing have on the Kuki Zo community? It would disrupt their cross-border ties, harm their livelihoods, and threaten their cultural identity.
3. What are the underlying causes of ethnic strife in Manipur? Issues such as illegal immigration, land disputes, and competition for resources.
4. What other measures could the government take to address illegal immigration? Strengthen border patrol, improve intelligence sharing, and address the root causes of conflict.
5. What is the current status of the protests? They are ongoing, with the Kuki Zo community demanding that the government reconsider its decision and preserve their way of life.
After Chief Justice Gavai's formal recommendation, Union Government is set to appoint Justice Surya Kant as the next Chief Justice of India. With a distinguished legal career and key institutional roles, Justice Kant is highly regarded for his commitment to electoral transparency and landmark verdicts on various issues including abrogation of Article 370 and free speech. His term is expected to begin on November 24, 2025, and last for approximately 15 months.
On Monday, Union Home Minister Amit Shah inaugurated the fourth edition of the India Maritime Week 2025, where renowned leaders, policymakers, and maritime experts from India and abroad are expected to participate over the next 5 days. In his keynote speech, Shah highlighted India's growing maritime strength and strategic location, citing the government's efforts to increase port handling capacity and develop new mega and deep-draft ports. He also inaugurated state-of-the-art Deep-Sea Fishing Vessels under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojna at Mumbai's Mazagaon Dock. The event, organised by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, is being held in partnership with the Indian Ports Association and will conclude on October 31.
The annual Chhath Puja festival has once again become a battleground for Delhi's political parties, with the AAP accusing the BJP-led government of creating an "artificial Yamuna" to cater to PM Modi's ceremonial dip while ordinary devotees are forced to pray in the highly-polluted river. While AAP leaders criticize BJP for disregarding the sentiments of devotees, the latter defends their preparations, citing "unprecedented arrangements" for the festival. However, as the parties argue, environmental reports continue to warn about the dangerous levels of pollution in the Yamuna, posing a serious threat to the health of devotees.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to social media to share his Diwali celebration on board the INS Vikrant with the Indian Navy. He expressed his gratitude for the opportunity and highlighted the juxtaposition of the vast ocean and Mother India's brave soldiers. The Prime Minister also witnessed an impressive Air Power Demo and participated in the Bara Khana with naval personnel.
The Mahadev Khola Dham Welfare Trust in Meghalaya has accused local authorities of violating the rights of the Hindu community during Diwali celebrations. The Trust claims that an order issued by the Deputy Commissioner of East Khasi Hills, ordering the closure of a shop selling puja materials, infringes on their constitutional rights. The Trust, which has been a place of worship for over a century, argues that this order was made without proper notice or verification and goes against earlier permission granted for the shop to operate during the festival. They have appealed for the withdrawal of the order and the safeguarding of their religious and cultural heritage.
As Chhath celebrations are underway in Delhi, the AAP has accused the BJP of creating an artificial ghat at Vasudev Ghat and filling it with filtered water for PM Modi's ceremonial dip. The BJP has denied the allegations and called them a display of political frustration. The issue has sparked a political controversy with AAP's top leaders launching an attack on X and accusing the BJP of insulting the religious sentiments of Chhath devotees. With the state elections in Bihar approaching, the festival has gained political significance for both parties.
Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta insures that extensive preparations have been made for the Chhath festival this year for Purvanchal brothers and sisters at all Yamuna ghats from Palla to Kalindi. Art and Culture Minister Kapil Mishra joined BJP Delhi President Virendra Sachdeva in visiting several Chhath Ghats across Delhi to review arrangements, including cleanliness, lighting, safety, and traffic management. Together, they ensure a memorable Chhath festival for devotees with the blessings of Chhathi Maiya.
Kerala General Education Minister V Sivankutty has clarified that the state government agreed to join the Centre's PM SHRI scheme to prevent the loss of approximately ₹1,500 crore in central funds. He stated that the state will not compromise on its education policies and will continue to publish its own textbooks. With the agreement allowing either party to withdraw at any time, the minister asserted that Kerala has the right to approach the court if necessary. He added that funds from the scheme are also used to support autism centres and other projects in the state, making it crucial for the education department to take steps to prevent the loss of funds.
In the 127th episode of his monthly radio programme 'Mann Ki Baat', Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized the enduring significance of the national song 'Vande Mataram'. He urged all Indians to celebrate the 150th year of the song's composition and instill its message of patriotism and unity in the younger generations. Tracing its origins, PM Modi highlighted how the song reflects India's ancient wisdom and the powerful bond between "Ma Bharati" and her children. The programme, launched in 2014, aims to connect with various segments of Indian society and is now broadcast in multiple languages across the world.
During his monthly radio programme, PM Narendra Modi addressed various topics including the importance of Chhath festival in showcasing India's social unity, the recent success of Operation Sindoor by the armed forces, and the upcoming celebrations for Sardar Patel's birth anniversary and Birsa Munda's legacy. He also urged citizens to participate in the Run for Unity event on October 31 and highlighted the significance of 'Vande Mataram' in Indian culture.