The Junta’s plan to dismantle the IDP camps, Internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Northern Shan State, specifically in the Kutkai and Monekoe regions,os posing major headaches according to the IDPs.
IDPs in the Monekoe and Kutkai areas are planning to move to safer locations due to the impending dismantling of IDP camps. They are unable to return to their villages, so they are seeking alternative places for security and stability.
U Bran Mai, in charge of the Monekoe IDP camp, said, "The Military Council plans to shut down the IDP camp. They often talk about closing the camp. It's been a long time, and we haven't been able to go back home, so we're considering another way and moving to another area."
According to reports, IDPs who have migrated and adopted a self-help approach have been purchasing land in installments and constructing their homes solely using bamboo. They have been accomplishing this without any assistance from governmental bodies or organizations.
Reportedly, approximately 70 households of IDPs from Monekoe have already been relocated, while more than 100 houses still remain within the Monekoe IDP camp.
The initial self-initiated relocation took place in Ward 6 in the eastern part of Monekoe Township, which was known for sugarcane cultivation by the Ta'ang people. The IDPs acquired land by purchasing it in installments, enabling them to establish their new homes in the area.
An IDP woman from Kut Khaing KBC IDP Camp 1 said, "They have already devised a strategic plan to relocate and dismantle the camp, leaving us with no choice but to move. Currently, our area is plagued by numerous armed groups, making it unsafe for us to return to our village. Both the area and our well-being lack adequate security. Hence, my aim is to relocate to a secure place near this town."
However other IDPs say they cannot afford to purchase land for resettlement .It has been reported that some IDPs are facing hardships including the ones who purchased land. "Some people bought land on credit and now they're facing many difficulties. The land is hilly, so they need to level it, which adds to their debts. Parents are also struggling in their businesses, and there are few job opportunities available. On top of that, the prices of goods have increased significantly. We are dealing with many hardships,” an IDP continued.
The IDPs from Kutkai KBC IDP Camp 1, comprising a population of 243 in Kutkai Township, have expressed the challenges they face in returning to their homes. Furthermore, they have indicated that it is not feasible to reconstruct their houses in the new location where they intend to settle.
It is reported that the new living area for the IDPs from Kutkai KBC IDP Camp will be situated near their current camp. The IDPs themselves are undertaking the task of land leveling in preparation for their relocation.
