Democratic forces in Myanmar renamed Chin state as "Chinland" on Monday, taking down the "Republic of Myanmar" sign, signalling the creation of a new country on India's eastern border. Following months of intense combat between pro-democracy groups in Myanmar and the country's current military regime, the Chinland Defence Force (PDF) seized control of the Indo-Myanmar border two weeks ago. 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, following the initiation of the joint offensive by the 'Three Brotherhood Alliance' against the Myanmar Army in Northern Myanmar, the Myanmar Army has found itself on the defensive. The alliance, comprised of the Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army (MNDAA), the Ta'ang National Liberation Army (TNLA), and the Arakan Army (AA), has exhibited a strong and assertive stance against the Junta. This operation, known as Operation 1027 (Ten Twenty-Seven), delivered a significant blow to the Junta in Shan State, which shares a border with China.

Nevertheless, another setback for the Junta occurred on November 12 in the Chin state. The already diminished morale of the Myanmar Army suffered another blow when at least 42 army personnel were successfully evacuated to Tamu, Myanmar, near the Manipur border, from Mizoram, which shares a border with Chin state. Ironically, these 42 personnel sought refuge in India, along with civilians whom they had previously targeted with bomb drops from jets.

The important commercial town of Rikhawdar in Myanmar was seized on November 12 night by the rebels of the 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 on the other side of the border across the Tiau River that separates India and Myanmar.

In an interview with Republic Digital, a commander from a rebel camp in the Chin state expressed readiness for a full-scale war with the Myanmar Army. He stated that the prolonged game of hide-and-seek has concluded, and now they are positioned to determine the fate of their homeland.

"All the rebel groups of various ethnic identities 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 paying 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.

A cause for concern for India is the close affiliation between many rebel groups operating in the Shan state of Myanmar and the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA). In the evolving geopolitical landscape within the immediate neighbourhood, this connection raises apprehensions for the security establishment in India.

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

It should be noted that the anti-junta forces are gaining control over areas in the Sagaing Region of Myanmar. The Sagaing Region, which hosts a Naga Self Administration, is known for its hostile environment. Over the past several decades, numerous terror groups from India's Northeastern States have sought refuge in this region.

With the rebels securing complete control and a noticeable lack of political activity in the area, there is a possibility that these rebels could be manipulated by external forces, particularly the Chinese, and potentially become a puppet state.

Image source: AP