Myanmar’s junta declares mandatory military service for all young men, women
ALSO READ: What comes under India's Free Movement Regime with Myanmar and why was it scrapped? Top points Myanmar has been gripped by chaos since the military seized power from an elected government in a 2021 coup. Since October, the Tatmadaw, as the military is known, has suffered personnel losses while battling a coordinated offensive by an alliance of three ethnic minority insurgent groups, as well as allied pro-democracy fighters who have taken up arms against the junta.
ALSO READ: Why India supports Myanmar's contested military regime It is the biggest challenge the military has faced since first taking power in the former British colony in 1962. Analysts have said the Tatmadaw is struggling to recruit soldiers and has begun forcing non-combat personnel to the frontline.
ALSO READ: Over 5000 Myanmar nationals flee to India amid clashes "The duty to safeguard and defend the nation extends beyond just the soldiers but to all citizens. So I want to tell everyone to proudly follow this people's military service law," junta spokesman Zaw Min Tun told state media.
A law mandating conscription was introduced in 2010 but has not been enforced until now. Those who fail to comply with the draft face imprisonment for up to five years, the legislation says.Milestone Alert!
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