Flies buzzed around the bodies of ten men, including three teenagers, who were killed by the Indian Army in Myanmar’s Sagaing region on May 14. The victims, part of the Pa Ka Pha (PKP) group linked to Myanmar’s government-in-exile, were lying on a tarpaulin, their blood-soaked uniforms prepared for a mass cremation in Tamu, near the Indian border.
Witnesses described a hurried setup for the cremation, with wooden logs and burning rubber tires creating a makeshift pyre. The Indian Army stated that the men were armed and suspected of cross-border insurgency. They claimed the troops acted on intelligence and engaged in a gunfight with the PKP. However, the National Unity Government (NUG), which oversees the PKP, strongly disputed this account. They accused the Indian forces of capturing, torturing, and executing the men rather than engaging in a legitimate battle.
The incident has raised alarms among the NUG and various rebel groups, as well as the thousands of refugees from Myanmar living in northeastern India. Many are now fearful of further violence spilling over the border. Thida, a local organizer, expressed deep concern, stating that the atmosphere has changed dramatically. Previously, there was a sense of safety while living close to India, but now anxiety looms over potential future attacks.
The Indian Army’s actions have sparked confusion and concern. Initial reports claimed the Indian troops were fired upon, prompting a retaliatory response. However, there are conflicting narratives from Indian officials regarding whether the soldiers acted on intelligence or in response to an attack. A retired Indian official noted the inconsistencies, suggesting that something went wrong during the operation.
In the days following the killings, local authorities in Tamu were pressured to sign documents from the Indian Army in order to retrieve the bodies. These documents implied consent to border fencing and stated that the PKP members were killed in Indian territory, claims that have been met with skepticism by the NUG.
The border between India and Myanmar has been a source of tension for years, especially with the Indian government’s recent decision to erect fencing along the border. This move has disrupted the free movement of people in communities that have historically crossed the border without restriction. Many locals are worried that the new fencing will lead to more violence and instability.
Experts believe that the killings in Tamu could alter the relationship between Indian forces and Myanmar’s rebel groups. As tensions rise, there is a risk of escalating conflict that could affect the already fragile situation in the region.