Why has the MHA reimposed restrictions in three NE States?

Sub: Polity

Sec: Msc

Context:

The Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has reintroduced the Protected Area Regime (PAR) in the states of Manipur, Nagaland, and Mizoram.
This move restricts and monitors the movement of foreigners within these regions. Foreigners visiting these states are now required to obtain prior permission and Protected Area Permits (PAP) from the government.
The relaxation previously granted to these states under the Foreigners (Protected Areas) Order, 1958 has been withdrawn with immediate effect.

Foreigners (Protected Areas) Order, 1958:

The order mandates that no foreigner can enter or remain in a protected area without a permit issued by the Central government or any office authorised by the Central government.
Foreigners must obtain a permit specifying entry points, residence, and stay duration.
This order applies to areas located between the inner line and the international border of specific states and union territories, which are designated as Protected Areas.
These include regions in: Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh, Rajasthan, Uttarakhand, entire states of Manipur, Mizoram, Nagaland, and partly Sikkim.
Additionally, a 1963 order declared the entire Andaman & Nicobar Islands and parts of Sikkim as “restricted areas.”

Relaxation of PAR:

In 2010, the Protected Area Regime was relaxed for Manipur, Mizoram, and Nagaland due to improved security conditions and the desire to promote tourism.
Initially, the relaxation was for one year and subsequently for 1-2 years. In 2022, the relaxation was further extended for an additional five years, lasting until December 31, 2027.
However, on December 17, 2024, the relaxation was withdrawn for these states.

Reason for Withdrawal of Relaxation:

The relaxation was withdrawn due to growing security concerns in these border areas, particularly in Manipur, which has faced ethnic violence since May 2023.
Additionally, the influx of refugees from Myanmar, following the military coup in 2021, has added to tensions in the region. India shares a 1,643 km long border with Myanmar which passes through the States of Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Manipur and Mizoram.
The Free Movement Regime (FMR) between the two countries, allowing movement of people living within 16 kms of the international border, was suspended by MHA in January.

Procedure to obtain a PAP:

The Protected Area Permit (PAP) can be obtained from Indian missions (embassies and consulates), Ministry of Home Affairs, District Magistrates, Resident Commissioners of a state, Home Commissioners and Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO).
Additionally, foreign nationals from countries such as Afghanistan, China, and Pakistan, or those of foreign origin from these nations, requires prior approval from the MHA.

Registration requirements:

Foreigners visiting Manipur, Nagaland, and Mizoram are now required to mandatorily register with the Foreigners Registration Officer (FRO) within 24 hours of their arrival in any state or district they visit.
Myanmar nationals who previously did not require a PAP (if holding an e-tourist visa or any other visa) must now also register with the FRRO within 24 hours of arrival.

Inner line:

The colonial concept of Inner Line separates the tribal-majority hills of the Northeast from the plains. ILP was introduced in India to protect the indigenous tribes from exploitation.
To enter and stay in these areas, an Inner Line Permit (ILP) is needed.