25 October 2025 — The Chin Human Rights Organization (CHRO) is urging immediate international action as Myanmar’s junta forces conduct large-scale troop movements, signaling a potential new military offensive in Chin State and Sagaing Region.
According to credible sources, senior junta commanders have held planning meetings for coordinated operations in Chin State following recent escalations, CHRO said.
On 16 October, at least five aircraft delivered reinforcements to Kalay Airport, and 11 military trucks transported troops toward Kalay University. Between 18 and 19 October, junta forces attacked villages in Sagaing Region, recapturing areas from resistance control.
Yesterday, Myanmar’s military junta launched airstrikes in Kanpetlet town, killing four persons and injuring over 15 others. This follows a series of aerial bombardments in Chin State in recent days.
Local defense groups have advised civilians to avoid major roads amid heightened troop movements and clashes. Residents in Khampat town in Sagaing Region are fleeing their homes, and military convoys have been seen advancing toward Chin State.
CHRO Executive Director Salai Za Uk Ling expressed grave concern: “The renewed deployment of combat units notorious for past atrocities — including LID 77 and 99, involved in the 2017 Rohingya massacres and post-coup operations — raises serious alarm.”
Ling also warned of catastrophic consequences for the civilian population, who cannot withstand another humanitarian disaster.
Intensified ground and air operations are anticipated in Chin State with the approaching dry season. These actions are expected to create unbearable conditions for local communities.
CHRO believes this military build-up is linked to the junta’s plans for sham elections, aimed at consolidating control through violence.
The Union Election Commission of Myanmar has announced the candidates for political parties participating in the upcoming Chin State elections planned to be conducted in the five townships of Hakha, Falam, Tedim, Tonzang, and Thantlang.
A total of 28 seats are up for grabs, comprising 14 Pyine Hluttaw (State Assembly), nine Amyotha Hluttaw (House of Nationalities or the Upper House), and five Pyithu Hluttaw (House of Representatives or the Lower House) seats, according to the announcement.
The first phase of the election is scheduled for 28 December 2025, and will take place in Hakha and Tedim townships.
CHRO calls on the United Kingdom, as the UN Security Council penholder on Myanmar, to mobilize Council members to discuss this development and take preventive measures.
The region experienced a wave of attacks in 2021, which led to an emergency meeting of the UN Security Council.
The organization also urges ASEAN and the EU to reject the junta’s illegitimate elections and increase humanitarian aid for affected populations in northwestern Myanmar.#
