The biometric enrolment process for over 30,000 Myanmar refugees in Mizoram has been delayed due to the improper format of forms supplied by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA). Despite the extended deadline, the process remains stalled.
Officials from Mizoram's home department stated that the forms provided by the MHA, which were intended for the deportation of illegal foreigners, are unsuitable for the biometric enrolment of Myanmar refugees.
A senior official in the home department explained: “The forms supplied by the MHA are unsuitable for collecting biometric data of Myanmar refugees, as they are meant for deportation purposes.”
The official further stressed that using these forms would contradict the assurances given by Home Minister Amit Shah to Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma earlier this year. Shah had promised that no Myanmar refugee in Mizoram would be deported until peace is restored in Myanmar.
Months ago, the Mizoram government returned the forms to the MHA, citing their unsuitability, but the central government has yet to issue revised forms or provide any further communication.
While awaiting the necessary revisions, the Mizoram government has already gathered biographic data, including personal profiles, of nearly all refugees, even those who have returned to Myanmar. However, temporary identity cards for a small number of refugees remain pending.
Official data reveals that Mizoram is currently hosting 32,794 Myanmar refugees. Of these, 16,892 are living in 127 relief camps across seven districts, while 15,902 are residing outside the camps. The refugee population includes 10,002 males, 10,340 females, and 12,452 children.
The delay in biometric enrolment raises concerns regarding the refugees’ access to resources and their ability to secure long-term documentation.
Authorities are awaiting further directions from the central government to move forward with the process.
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