Imphal: Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh has announced significant progress in addressing the issue of illegal immigrants from Myanmar, with 5,457 individuals detected and 5,173 of them having their biometric data collected as of May 7th, 2024. The deportation process for these individuals is currently underway, with humanitarian aid being provided to them.
Last week, 38 Myanmarese nationals were deported from Manipur, bringing the total number of deportations to 77 since March 8th. This includes 55 women and five children. Chief Minister N. Biren Singh emphasised that the deportation process is being carried out without discrimination.
Speaking on the recent deportations, Chief Minister N. Biren Singh stated, “We have completed the first phase of deportation of illegal immigrants from Myanmar. A total of 77 individuals have been deported, including one Indian national who was brought back from Myanmar during the handover ceremony. We continue to identify illegal immigrants and record their biometric data to ensure the security of our borders and country.”
The influx of Myanmar nationals into Manipur began after the military junta seized power in Myanmar on February 1, 2021. Over 5,000 Myanmar nationals, including women and children, sought shelter in Manipur, while over 32,000 sought refuge in Mizoram due to armed clashes between the Army and pro-democracy civilian armed forces.
In response to the situation, the Manipur government, following the advice of the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), has been collecting biometric details of Myanmar nationals in the state. The government’s efforts aim to ensure the safety and security of both citizens and immigrants.
The region has also witnessed violence between the Meitei and Kuki-Zomi communities, resulting in casualties and displacement. Since May 3rd last year, at least 220 people have been killed, 1,500 injured, and 60,000 displaced due to riots stemming from tensions surrounding the demand for Scheduled Tribe status by the Meitei community.
The deportation of illegal immigrants from Myanmar represents a significant step towards addressing the ongoing challenges faced by Manipur and underscores the government’s commitment to maintaining law and order while ensuring humanitarian assistance to those in need.
Additionally, it’s essential to acknowledge the efforts of various organisations and agencies in providing support to the affected communities. Non-governmental organisations (NGOs), local authorities, and international partners have been actively involved in providing relief aid, medical assistance, and shelter to those affected by the crisis.
Furthermore, the situation in Myanmar remains a concern for regional stability, with ongoing political unrest and human rights violations prompting international condemnation and calls for action. The Manipur government’s proactive approach in managing the influx of refugees and addressing the root causes of the crisis demonstrates its commitment to regional security and stability.
As the situation continues to evolve, it is crucial for all stakeholders to remain vigilant and proactive in addressing the challenges posed by illegal immigration and promoting peace, stability, and prosperity in the region.
