11 Aug,2023 India’s Myanmar quandary, its Paradoxical Policy Flashcards
What is the current situation in Myanmar?
The military junta in Myanmar has extended the state of emergency for another six months. Several political prisoners have been released, but the sentences of Aung San Suu Kyi and Win Myint have been reduced.
What has been India’s response to the situation in Myanmar?
India has provided humanitarian assistance to Myanmar, but its focus on the issue has diminished over time. The Indian government has also suspended the Free Movement Regime with Myanmar due to concerns about trafficking and drug smuggling.
How did India respond to the early pandemic and coup situation in Myanmar?
India provided food and vaccine aid as humanitarian assistance in response to COVID-19 and the coup.
Why did India’s focus on Myanmar’s issues diminish over time?
India’s focus shifted due to other priorities, and accusations of instigating violence in Manipur diverted attention.
What is the paradox in India’s policy towards Myanmar?
India is committed to democracy in Myanmar, but it also has security concerns. For example, India has increased its arms supply to the Myanmar military since the coup.
What is the challenge facing India in Myanmar?
India needs to balance its commitment to humanitarianism with its security concerns. It also needs to find a way to engage with pro-democracy actors in Myanmar without alienating the military.
What is the way forward for India in Myanmar?
India should continue to provide humanitarian assistance to Myanmar. It should also engage with pro-democracy actors and avoid securitization of the refugee issue.
What is the Free Movement Regime (FMR)?
The FMR is an agreement between India and Myanmar that allows people living in villages near the border to travel up to 16 km inside the other country without a visa.
What are the four northeastern states of India that share an international boundary with Myanmar?
The four northeastern states of India that share an international boundary with Myanmar are Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Manipur, and Mizoram.
What is the proposed way to balance humanitarian treatment of refugees with security concerns?
India should avoid securitization and profiling of incoming refugees and foster a peaceful environment.
What are the two main reasons for the suspension of the FMR?
The two main reasons for the suspension of the FMR are concerns about trafficking and drug smuggling, and the security situation in Myanmar.
What is the United Nations Special Rapporteur’s report on India’s arms supply to Myanmar?
The United Nations Special Rapporteur on Myanmar has reported that India has increased its arms supply to the Myanmar military since the coup. The report has raised concerns that this could undermine India’s position on restoring democracy in Myanmar.
How does India’s treatment of refugees from Myanmar’s situation reflect its policy?
India’s treatment of refugees involves balancing humanitarian concerns and security challenges along the border.
What is the way forward for India in balancing its commitment to humanitarianism and security concerns in Myanmar?
India needs to find a way to balance its commitment to humanitarianism with its security concerns. It could do this by increasing its humanitarian assistance to Myanmar, while also engaging with the military to ensure that the situation does not deteriorate further.
