Imphal: In a significant revelation, Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh disclosed in the assembly on March 4, that a staggering 6,746 illegal Myanmarese nationals have been identified within the state’s borders. This revelation spans from May 3, 2023, to February 27 of this year, pointing towards a pressing concern.
CM Singh underscored the government’s actions, revealing that 259 Myanmarese individuals have already been repatriated to their home country following thorough biometric data collection. Meanwhile, the remaining individuals have been placed in temporary shelters to prevent any potential mingling with the general public.
To address the growing crisis, CM Singh announced the establishment of a reconciliation team led by D Gangmei of the Hill Areas Committee. This team aims to initiate dialogue with MLAs who were notably absent during the recent assembly session, highlighting the government’s commitment to inclusive decision-making.
Emphasising the urgency of resolving the situation, CM Singh stressed the need for a prompt resolution to restore peace and harmony in the state. Responding to a calling attention motion, he appealed to various groups, urging them not to exploit the crisis by collecting donations or taxes from commuters along major roads and national highways.
The Chief Minister also touched upon the humanitarian aspects of the situation. Ex gratia payments have been disbursed to 114 individuals, with the remaining cases pending verification. Additionally, CM Singh acknowledged the challenges faced by internally displaced persons (IDPs) due to the ongoing violence, disclosing that 320 relief camps have been established to cater to their basic needs.
As Manipur grapples with this complex issue, the Chief Minister’s call for unity and swift action resonates, signifying the state’s commitment to addressing the situation comprehensively.
Meanwhile,In a humanitarian effort, Myanmarese children residing in relief camps in Manipur’s Kamjong district were encompassed by the “National Immunisation Day, Intensified Pulse Polio Immunisation programme 2024,” inaugurated by Health and Family Welfare Minister Dr. Sapam Ranjan Singh. The three-day program, launched at the Family Welfare Training Centre in Imphal, aims to vaccinate approximately 3.5 lakh children aged 0 to 5 years.
With nearly 5700 Myanmarese refugees seeking refuge in various Kamjong villages due to a military crackdown in their country, the government has undertaken comprehensive measures, including biometric registration and provision of basic needs, including healthcare services.
Dr. Lucy Duidang, Chief Medical Officer of Kamjong district, highlighted that out of the 590 Myanmarese children in relief camps eligible for polio vaccination, 415 were inoculated on the first day. The remaining children are scheduled to receive vaccinations over the next two days, along with coverage for nine remote villages in Kamjong district.
Dr. Ranjan, acknowledging India’s polio-free certification by the World Health Organisation in 2014, emphasised the ongoing need for large-scale immunisation efforts. Despite India’s success, the government remains vigilant due to the prevalence of polio in neighbouring countries. The minister stressed the importance of a coordinated effort involving all stakeholders to raise awareness and ensure immunisation reaches every household. He further added that the immunisation programme has been organised with an objective that no individual is left behind, even during times of crisis.”
