In Myanmar's rebel-held Chin State, civilians are escaping deadly air strikes and violence as the military junta presses ahead with elections starting December 28. Iang Za Kim, a resident of K-Haimual village, described hearing bombs and fighter jets on November 26, forcing her and others to flee into the jungle with just food and clothes. ‘‘We were terrified. We thought the junta's planes would bomb us too,’’ she said, adding they fled to avoid forced voting under threat of jail and torture. The junta has launched one of its fiercest offensives in over three years, involving air strikes on villages, schools, churches, and a hospital in nearby Rakhine State, killing dozens including children. The Chin Human Rights Organisation confirmed deaths of 12 people from attacks since September. The National League for Democracy (NLD) party, led by jailed Aung San Suu Kyi, is boycotting the election, which critics say is rigged and undemocratic. ‘‘When the main political party is not being allowed to contest the election, how can there be genuine democracy?’’ said displaced resident Bawi Nei Lian. Rebel groups, including the Chin National Front, resist the military advance despite heavy artillery, drone strikes, and air power. Injured fighters as young as 18 recover from amputations at the rebel base hospital. ‘‘I've lost a leg, but even if I've to give up my life I'm happy to make the sacrifice so that future generations have a better life,’’ said fighter Si Si Maung. Thousands have fled to safer areas, with some crossing the border into India’s Mizoram state, where locals provide shelter and aid. Elderly refugee Ral Uk Thang said, ‘‘We're afraid of our own government. They are extremely cruel.’’ Many fear the election is a cover to prolong military rule while crushing all opposition. The election is set to conclude with results by late January, but rebel leaders warn it serves only to strengthen the junta’s grip, not reflect the people's will. "We don't want the election. Because the military does not know how to govern our country," said Ral Uk Thang. The violence and displacement continue, leaving deep scars and uncertain futures for Myanmar’s civilians and youth fighting for freedom.