Zokhawthar/Aizawl :
Tensions flared once again along the India-Myanmar border as armed confrontations broke out between two Chin rebel groups, prompting a fresh wave of civilian displacement into Mizoram.
According to local sources, at around 8:30 a.m. Friday, fighters from the Chin National Defence Force (CNDF), reportedly based in Myanmar’s Falam region, launched an assault on the camps of the Hualngo faction of the Chin Defence Force (CDF) in the village of Khawmawi, near the Tiau River bordering Mizoram. CNDF forces claimed control of several CDF camps in the area, stating that they had effectively secured them without reported casualties on their side.
The Zokhawthar branch of the Young Mizo Association (YMA), issued an alert warning locals to remain indoors due to the heavy exchange of gunfire. The incident caused panic in the border town of Zokhawthar on the Indian side, with gunfire reportedly audible throughout the day. Residents were urged not to venture outside as bullets occasionally crossed the international boundary.
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| Tiau River, Source: Maipawl |
Local media reported that during the height of the gunbattle, a man attempting to swim across the Tiau River into Mizoram to escape the violence was swept away by the strong current. Volunteers from the Zokhawthar YMA have been searching for his body, despite the danger posed by stray bullets flying across the river.
Later in the afternoon, at around 2:40 p.m., fresh gunfire was reported near the border, raising concerns of renewed clashes. While the exact number of casualties remains unclear, at least five injured CDF members were confirmed, with one in critical condition admitted to Champhai District Hospital. Others are receiving treatment at local medical centers in Zokhawthar.
In response, Champhai District Commissioner Mohammed Aaquib dispatched an Executive Magistrate to Zokhawthar to assess the situation. Relief supplies, including blankets and essential provisions, have been distributed to those fleeing the violence.
In a symbolic shift, local media also reported that the town of Khawmawi on the Myanmar side has effectively been taken over by CNDF forces. The Chin National Army (CNA) flag, which had previously been hoisted at the Myanmar border gate as a declaration of territorial control, was reportedly taken down by CNDF fighters. The flag, once a symbol of victory by one Chin rebel group, has now been reportedly removed, ironically, by another Chin militia vying for control of the same region.
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| CNDF AllegedlyTakes Down CNA Flag at Border Gate Amid Rebel Infighting |
Sources familiar with the Chin resistance movement say the current conflict stems from deepening tensions and territorial disputes between the various Chin factions. Previous skirmishes involving the CNDF and the People’s Defence Force (PDF) had already resulted in multiple deaths.
Unofficial estimates suggest over 500 people may have crossed into Mizoram amid the latest violence. Since Myanmar’s 2021 military coup, Mizoram has provided refuge to thousands fleeing conflict across the porous border, with local communities and authorities continuing to offer humanitarian support despite ongoing resource constraints.