MANDALAY, Myanmar: Tragedy struck outside a passport office in Mandalay, Myanmar, on Monday as two women lost their lives in a crush of people desperate to obtain passports and escape the junta’s military service law. The victims, aged 52 and 39, succumbed to a lack of oxygen after falling into a ditch near the overcrowded queue, according to a rescue worker.
The chaotic scene underscores the growing desperation among Myanmar’s populace as the military regime intensifies its efforts to enforce a controversial military conscription law. The law, which mandates military service for all men aged 18-35 and women aged 18-27, has sparked fear and uncertainty among the youth, prompting many to seek refuge abroad.
The junta’s attempt to enforce the law comes amid mounting opposition to its rule, with armed resistance escalating across the country. Recent clashes have seen the military lose ground to ethnic minority armed groups, further destabilizing the regime.
Images of long queues outside passport offices and foreign embassies highlight the exodus of Myanmar’s youth seeking to evade military conscription. The prospect of mandatory service has prompted thousands to seek visas and flee the country, fearing the repercussions of refusing to serve.
Despite the junta’s assertion that millions will be eligible for conscription, doubts remain about its capacity to enforce the law effectively. With only limited training capacity, questions arise regarding the logistical feasibility of implementing widespread military service.
Amid the turmoil, the junta has resorted to arming pro-military militias and cracking down on opposition forces, including anti-coup “People’s Defence Forces” (PDFs) and ethnic minority armed groups. The escalating conflict underscores the deepening crisis in Myanmar and the urgent need for a peaceful resolution to the ongoing unrest.
