According to a post on social networking sites, the Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army (MNDAA) has requested more than 60 home-cum-shops in the Bamar community in Laukkai Town to vacate by March 11.

Local residents report that the MNDAA group informed the shop owners on March 9 that their shops would be demolished. Despite being aware of the situation beforehand, the shop owners visited the Laukkai administration office of the MNDAA group three times, pleading for the shops to be spared. Unfortunately, their requests were ultimately denied.

The Bamar community’s shops are situated between one-way streets—one in the front and another at the back. The demolition decision aims to widen these streets. However, some residents argue that the current two-way streets already provide sufficient space for two cars and a motorcycle to pass simultaneously. Additionally, the platform width on each side is approximately 10 feet.

While only a few shops are owned by Bamar individuals, the local populace refers to this area as the Bamar community due to its focus on selling Burmese goods. It also serves as a residence for migrant workers from mainland Myanmar.

Addressing the issue, an MNDAA spokesperson clarified to the BBC that the demolition is not based on ethnicity. Both the Bamar community shops and a building on another road were demolished because of their proximity to the road. The decision to widen roads is driven by congestion in high-traffic areas during regional development. In such cases, demolition becomes mandatory.

He clarified that Bamar individuals are not barred from entering Laukkai. While necessary checks are conducted, anyone is permitted to enter. However, individuals with a notorious political background are the exception and not accepted.