On the third day of their hunger strike, 18 Myanmar nationals detained in Indian prisons are protesting for their freedom. Despite earlier promises of release, they remain in custody in Imphal, Manipur. The group includes both migrant workers and refugees, united in their demand for liberation. Below, we explore their situation, the motivations behind the hunger strike, and the implications for Myanmar-India relations.
1. Background: Myanmar Nationals Detained in India
Imphal’s Sarji Wah Prison: Home to Migrant Workers and War Refugees Myanmar nationals detained in Sarji Wah Prison, located in Imphal, Manipur, include migrant workers and war evacuees who were initially arrested for illegal entry. Although release was expected, they remain imprisoned, sparking a hunger strike on November 10. 
Official Delays in Release Despite Promises Two months ago, Indian officials promised these detainees would be released; however, no action followed. The detainees have taken a firm stance, refusing to consume prison-provided food in protest. Family members report that the detainees are weak but committed to their hunger strike until release.
2. The Hunger Strike: Protest for Freedom
Demonstrating for Justice through Hunger Out of the 25 individuals on the release list, 18 have confirmed their participation in the hunger strike. Demonstrating peacefully by staying inside their dormitory and avoiding meals, they demand their long-overdue freedom. Some of the detainees are reported to be experiencing health issues, but they continue with the protest, determined to see it through.
Migrant Workers and Refugees United in Protest Of the strikers, 18 are migrant workers, and the remaining seven are refugees fleeing conflict in Myanmar. All detainees face the same grim reality: continued detention without explanation, despite clear promises of release.
3. The Myanmar-India Context and Broader Implications
Efforts by Myanmar-Indian Activist Groups Local activist groups, such as the Mizo youth organization, are working to facilitate the transfer of detainees from Manipur to Mizoram. This movement is supported by groups advocating for Myanmar citizens’ rights, seeking cooperation with the local government to improve the detainees’ situation.
Calls for Humanitarian Support and International Attention Many family members of those detained and Myanmar activists are rallying for international attention on this issue, calling for humanitarian intervention to ensure their loved ones’ freedom. The hunger strike is just one of many efforts to highlight the detainees’ plight and pressure authorities into action.
4. Potential Progress on Release Efforts
Local Government Engagement on Release Requests On November 11, the Mizo youth group approached the state home minister, seeking a resolution for detainee transfer. In response, the Minister of Interior promised to consult with police officials about the possibility of transferring the detainees to Mizoram state, closer to Myanmar’s borders.
Optimism for Future Actions in Neighboring States Efforts to support detainees in Assam, another Indian state where Myanmar nationals face similar issues, have begun to gain momentum. If successful, the transfer initiative in Manipur may serve as a model, inspiring further action and support for detained Myanmar citizens across other Indian states.
The Hunger Strike as a Symbol of Resilience
The hunger strike by Myanmar nationals in Indian prisons underscores their determination for freedom after months of unfulfilled promises. With growing support from local advocacy groups and family members, and through the involvement of Indian officials, there is cautious optimism for their eventual release. This movement brings hope that these detainees will finally see justice, serving as a reminder of the importance of diplomatic collaboration and humanitarian support across borders.
