The Plight of Zomi Refugees in Delhi, India
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Keywords:
Zomi Refugees, Forced Migration, Statelessness, Legal Exclusion, Refugee ProtectionAbstract
This paper explores the socio-economic, legal, and humanitarian challenges faced by Zomi Refugees from Myanmar who have migrated to Delhi, India. The Zomis, an ethnic group from northern Chin State, Myanmar, have fled to India in waves since the 1962 military coup. Fleeing decades of military persecution, forced labour, extrajudicial killings, and famine, many initially sought refuge in Mizoram due to cultural and ethnic ties. Over time, many Zomis migrated to Delhi for better opportunities and access to UNHCR services, which are not available in the northeastern states. However, the lack of formal refugee recognition in India rendered them stateless and highly vulnerable to exploitation, discrimination and deportation. Zomi asylum seekers live in precarious conditions with limited access to essential services and legal protection. Drawing on qualitative data from open-ended interviews, this study highlights the difficulties that Zomi refugees face regarding basic services, education, employment, and legal protections. Unlike other refugee groups in India, the Zomi receive little state recognition or institutional support. The findings underscore the urgent need for inclusive refugee policies, improved legal pathways for documentation and resettlement, and stronger international engagement to ensure protection and dignity for this marginalised community.
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