Kantarawaddy Times
In southern Shan State, the Nyaungshwe Township General Administration Department, under the military council, has once again warned Karenni internally displaced persons (IDPs) taking refuge in the township to return to their homes by the end of March, according to sources from the IDPs.
An IDP told Kantarawaddy Times that they had been warned in previous months to return home by March.
“They told us to return when the schools close in March. They said to return voluntarily. It’s frustrating, but what can we do? We just have to go back,” said one IDP.
Nyaungshwe Township hosts the largest number of IDPs in Shan State.
“In some areas, there have been continuous restrictions and closures, so they are primarily pressuring people to return to their homes. However, in those areas, armed conflicts are still ongoing. It seems like they are deliberately forcing IDPs into a corner, leaving them with no choice,” said a representative from a Pa-O youth organization.
According to data collected by the Pa-O youth organization, there are approximately 1,500 Karenni IDPs in Nyaungshwe Township, staying in IDP camps, monasteries, and some rented homes.
According to a woman IDP from Loikaw, those unable to return home due to health issues are being relocated to other areas.
“Those staying in monasteries have been forced to move since earlier. As for me, due to my poor health, I’ve been told to relocate temporarily within the area,” she explained.
Following the 1111 operation in Karenni State, many residents from Loikaw, Bawlakhe, and Hpasaung townships fled to Nyaungshwe Township in southern Shan State.
Currently, while some IDPs have returned to Loikaw, a significant number remain displaced in Nyaungshwe Township.