Young Mizo Association Urges State Action Over Possible Influx from Assam

The Central Committee of the Young Mizo Association (YMA)—Mizoram’s most prominent and influential civil society organisation—has made a strong appeal to the state government to take urgent preventive measures against a potential influx of people from neighbouring Assam. This demand comes in the backdrop of a recent eviction drive by the Assam government targeting alleged illegal encroachers, which has raised fears of spillover migration into Mizoram.

With around four lakh members across and beyond the state, YMA is a critical voice in Mizoram’s civil discourse. In a meeting held on Monday to address the situation, YMA General Secretary Malsawmliana briefed the media and highlighted the association's concern over possible illegal entry from Assam. The YMA urged the Mizoram government to adopt proactive and stringent steps to prevent any unauthorised migration that might destabilise the region’s demographics and disturb law and order.

One of the key suggestions from the YMA was the strict implementation of the Inner Line Permit (ILP). The ILP is a mandatory travel document that outsiders must obtain before entering Mizoram and other protected northeastern states. The association stressed that the state government must ensure ILP regulations are properly enforced, especially in border areas that are vulnerable to cross-border movement.

To support this initiative at a grassroots level, YMA has directed its sub-headquarters, local groups, and branches situated along Mizoram’s borders to remain highly vigilant. They have been asked to monitor movements along the boundary closely and report or respond swiftly to any instances of suspected illegal migration.

Malsawmliana particularly emphasized the need for enhanced alertness in the three key border districts: Aizawl, Kolasib, and Mamit. These districts together share a 164-kilometre-long border with Assam, making them critical to border control and internal security. The YMA believes that these areas are most susceptible to illegal entries and must therefore be prioritized for surveillance and administrative response.

This call to action by the YMA reflects broader concerns in Mizoram over cross-border tensions and the possible social, political, and economic consequences of unchecked migration. The organisation underlined that maintaining demographic balance, territorial integrity, and social harmony is of paramount importance for the state. They further noted that such migration—if left unmonitored—could place pressure on local resources, upset ethnic balances, and create long-term challenges for governance.

In essence, the Young Mizo Association is urging the Mizoram government to treat the situation with the urgency it deserves, and to work in close coordination with local civil bodies to protect the state's interests. This episode underscores the rising importance of civil society in the northeast and the growing demand for robust border and population management policies amid shifting regional dynamics.