Reports from a list indicated that between 200 to 300 women and LGBT individuals in Sittwe Township, Rakhine State, have been listed for Junta conscription, causing significant distress among their families.

In certain households, up to three family members find themselves on the conscription list for military service, including names of some young women, intensifying the worries of these concerned families.

"My son, who is married, was shocked to find his name on the conscription list. He also discovered the names of four girls and some gay youths as well. The families are deeply concerned, with some in tears”, an unnamed woman from Ywagyi (north) ward told Narinjara.

Similarly, a woman from Konetan ward voiced her profound worry, disclosing that her husband and two brothers have been included in the Junta's conscription list.

The conflict between the Arakan Army (AA) and the Junta in Rakhine State continues to intensify, with AA seizing control of most towns in the north. As a consequence, the Junta has imposed strict restrictions on access and travel to the areas remaining under its control in the region.

Sittwe Township in the north, and Thandwe and Kyaukphyu in the south, major towns still under Junta control, are witnessing the enforcement of plans to conscript civilians into the Junta's ranks through ward administrators.

When Narinjara reached out to several ward administrators in this regard, they confirmed the existence of the conscription list, clarifying that it is an initial proposal from the Ministry of Immigration, indicating that not all individuals listed will necessarily be conscripted.

"The Ministry of Immigration issued the list, and ward administrators in Sittwe were instructed to verify individuals' status in their respective wards. Those meeting the list's criteria may serve in the military, but it is important to note that not everyone will be conscripted”, a ward administrator who did not want to be named said.