Exclusive: Chinese-backed rebels in Myanmar declare new country on India's eastern border

In what could spell a security disaster for India, pro-democratic forces in Myanmar on Monday renamed Chin state as ‘Chinland,' removing the ‘Republic of Myanmar’ board, indicating a formation of a new nation on India’s eastern border.

After months of fierce fighting between Myanmar's incumbent military dispensation and pro-democratic forces, the Chinland Defence Force (CDF) has taken control of the Indo-Myanmar border two weeks back. This latest move to declare self independence by CDF, considered close to China, can open up a fresh front against India on its eastern borders.

Since October 27, after the 'Three Brotherhood Alliance started the joint offensive against the Myanmar Army in Northern Myanmar, the Myanmar Army has been on the backfoot. The brotherhood of the three ethnic groups led by the Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army (MNDAA), the Ta’ang National Liberation Army (TNLA), and the Arakan Army (AA), have been very aggressive and offensive towards the Junta. Code named- Operation 1027 (Ten Twenty Seven), this operation gave a major blow to the Junta in Shan state, bordering China.

However, the development in the Chin state was another jolt that the Junta got on November 12. The already down morale of the Myanmar Army was shaken further as at least 42 army personnel were safely evacuated to Tamu in Myanmar bordering Manipur, from Mizoram bordering Chin state. These 42 personnel fled to India seeking refuge, ironically along with civilians on whom they were dropping bomb by jets.

The important commercial town of Rikhawdar in Myanmar was seized on November 12 night by the rebels of Chin National Army.

Meanwhile, now, the confirmed reports have come in that the rebels started bringing up new signboards saying, "Welcome to Chinland". One such signboard has been put up in the other side of the border across the Tiau river that separates India and Myanmar.

Speaking to Republic Digital a commander of a rebel camp in Chin state said that they are prepared for a full scale war with the Myanmar Army. He said that the hide and seek that went on for years is over and now they are the one who will decide the fate in their own homeland. "All the rebel groups of various ethnic identity will soon sit together and seek support from across the world to recognize us as a separate nation. The days are just numbered and this Christmas we are hopeful of celebrating it along with our family and friends and pay rich tribute to those who sacrificed themselves to make this day a reality," the commander who has been leading an offensive for a unit of Chin National Army said.

What seems to be a cause of concern for India is the fact that many rebel groups those operating in Shan state of the country have a close affinity with the Chinese PLA. In the changing geopolitical scenario in the very close neigborhood, it is a cayse of concern for the security establishment here in India.  

A former security official, who have served several years in the Intelligence Bureau, has to say that the developments in Myanmar might not be favorable for India if proper steps are not taken immediately. He said, "Things are happening too fast then we expected it to happen. The split of Myanmar is now a reality and its happening right now."

It may be mentioned that the anti-junta forces are also taking control of areas in the Sagaing Region of Myanmar. The Sagaing Region have a Naga Self Administration and the area is very hostile. Many terror groups of India's Northeastern States have been taking shelter in this Region for last several decades.

The rebels taking full control of the area and visibly very less political movement there, it cannot be ruled out that the rebels might become pawn in the hands of the Chinese and become a vessel state.