As per the Manipur Government, the Union Home Ministry has reimposed the Protected Area Regime (PAR) in Manipur, Nagaland, and Mizoram to monitor the movement of foreigners amid growing security concerns arising out of influx from neighbouring countries.
- The new step signals heightened security measures in response to increasing concerns over the influx of foreigners from neighboring countries.
- This move reinstates restrictions that had been relaxed for the past 14 years, requiring foreigners to obtain special permits before visiting these northeastern states.
Key Points:
- Restricted Entry for Foreigners:
- Foreign nationals must now obtain prior permission and special permits to enter the three states.
- The relaxation, which began in 2010, allowed freer movement but is now revoked due to security concerns.
- About Protected Area Regime (PAR):
- The PAR is enforced under the Foreigners (Protected Areas) Order, 1958.
- It applies to regions between the Inner Line and the International Border, primarily areas close to Myanmar in these states.
- According to Union Ministry guidelines, a foreigner is not encouraged to visit protected areas unless there are “extraordinary reasons to justify a visit”.
- The guidelines also specify certain areas within the Protected Areas which can be visited by tourists with a permit.
- For grant of Protected Area Permits for reasons other than tourism, prior permission is needed from the Union Ministry of Home Affairs.
- Historical Context:
- The regime previously extended to Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, Manipur, Mizoram, Nagaland, parts of Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Uttarakhand.
- In 2010, the restrictions were lifted in Manipur, Mizoram, and Nagaland for one year, with extensions until the recent reimposition.
- Security Implications:
- The decision comes amid growing cross-border movement and security concerns, particularly with porous borders shared with Myanmar.
- Monitoring foreign movement is a step toward enhancing security in these border states.
Implications of the Reimposition:
- Security Monitoring:
- The policy strengthens surveillance and controls foreign presence in sensitive border areas.
- Impact on Tourism:
- The new restrictions may dampen tourism activities in the region, especially in areas previously open to foreign travelers.
- Border State Coordination:
- The reimposition underscores the importance of border state governance and collaboration with the Centre in managing security challenges.
