Civilians Flee Myanmar Amid Air Strikes and Controversial Elections

Thousands of civilians in Myanmar’s western Chin State have fled their homes in recent weeks, following intense air strikes and a ground offensive by the Burmese military. The operations target rebel-held areas as the junta seeks to regain control ahead of elections scheduled for 28 December.

Among those displaced is Iang Za Kim, who recounts hearing explosions and fighter jets overhead on 26 November in her village of K-Haimual. “We were terrified. We thought the planes would bomb us too,” she said, describing how she and her family fled into nearby jungles with only basic supplies.

Many villagers are now taking shelter across the border in India, living in temporary conditions while trying to cope with the trauma of sudden displacement. The emotional toll is evident, with several women describing their experiences as deeply distressing.

Beyond the immediate threat from military action, some civilians are also fleeing to avoid being forced to participate in what they describe as a sham election. “If we are caught and refuse to vote, they will put us in jail and torture us. We’ve run away so that we don’t have to vote,” Iang said.

Human rights groups have expressed concern over the combination of military violence and electoral coercion, warning that large numbers of civilians remain at risk as the election approaches. International observers continue to monitor the situation, though access to rebel-held areas is severely restricted.

The unfolding crisis highlights the humanitarian challenges facing Myanmar’s displaced populations, as fear, political control, and military aggression force families to leave their homes.