Mizoram Sees Surge in Unauthorised Foreign Entries Amid Permit Delays
A police official in Aizawl has reported a significant increase in unauthorised entries by foreign nationals into Mizoram, attributing this trend primarily to delays in the issuance of Protected Area Permits (PAPs). Foreigners are legally required to obtain PAPs before visiting sensitive border states in Northeast India, including Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Mizoram, and Nagaland, due to security concerns.
Reimposition of Protected Area Regime and Its Impact
Although the Protected Area Regime (PAR) had been relaxed for a period of 14 years until 2027, the Central government reimposed it starting December 17, 2024, citing heightened security risks. Under this regime, foreign nationals must secure prior permission through PAPs, which are issued online by the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO). Officials have noted that processing delays for these permits have prompted many foreigners to attempt entry into Mizoram before their applications are approved, leading to a rise in illegal crossings.
Recent Cases Highlighting the Issue
In a recent incident, a 53-year-old Slovak national was apprehended at Laki village in Siaha district along the Myanmar border. He had arrived in Aizawl and was travelling south with the intention of entering Myanmar to attend a festival. Authorities deported him on Friday via Lengpui Airport.
In a separate case, a 41-year-old Russian national, Igor Babko, entered Rajiv Nagar village in Mamit district from Tripura without a valid PAP. He was detained by Border Security Force (BSF) personnel and subsequently handed over to local police for further action.
Additionally, six Ukrainians and one American national, who were arrested by the National Investigation Agency (NIA), entered Mizoram by road from Assam via Vairengte. They were travelling in a vehicle driven by a local resident, who reportedly informed authorities that he was not carrying any non-tribals requiring Inner Line Permits (ILPs). This incident underscores the challenges in monitoring and enforcing entry regulations at various border points.
Gaps in Enforcement and Security Measures
At present, PAP checks are conducted only at Lengpui Airport, leaving other entry points such as the Sairang railway station and interstate road borders largely unmonitored for such permits. This gap in enforcement has facilitated unauthorised entries, raising concerns about border security and the effectiveness of the current regulatory framework. Officials emphasise the need for enhanced vigilance and streamlined processing to address these issues and prevent further illegal activities.
