Push back 718 Myanmar nationals who entered in two days: Manipur govt to Assam Rifles

The Manipur government has asked Assam Rifles to immediately push back 718 Myanmar nationals, including 302 children, who illegally entered the conflict-hit state in the last two days.

In a statement issued on Monday night, Manipur Chief Secretary Vineet Joshi asked Assam Rifles as to "how and why" the Myanmar refugees entered the state despite strict instruction to the central force to prevent entry of foreign nationals without valid visa or travel documents. The statement said migrants including 208 women and 301 children entered the New Lajang area in Chandel district on July 22 and 23. They entered the Northeastern state after fresh violence broke out in Myanmar, it said.

"The state government views the fresh illegal entry of 718 refugees very seriously with utmost sensitivity as the same may have international ramifications, more particularly in view of the ongoing law and order issues. In view of above, state government has sought detailed report from Assam Rifles authority to clarify on the facts and compelling circumstances/reasons, as to why and how these 718 Myanmar nationals were allowed to enter into India in Chandel district without proper travel documents; along with strict advice to push back those illegal Myanmar nationals immediately," said the statement.

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The directive comes at a time the state is facing ethnic clashes between the majority Meitei community and the Kuki tribes. Meiteis claim that "illegal migration" of Kuki Zomi people is one of the reasons for the ongoing conflict. They say the illegal migration has posed a threat to their identity as they are occupying the land in Manipur's hills districts. They also alleged involvement of Myanmar nationals in drug trafficking and illegal cultivation of opium.

A large number of refugees entered Mizoram, Nagaland and Manipur after the military junta launched a crackdown on the pro-democracy protesters in 2021. More than 35,000 refugees from Myanmar have been provided shelters in Mizoram. The same has not faced any protest from communities in Mizoram as they share the ethnic bond with the Mizos.

Manipur shares 390kms of the total 1,634kms of border with Myanmar. But most stretches has remained unfenced allowing the migrants, militants and criminals to carry out unlawful activities. Assam Rifles guards the India-Myanmar borders.

The statement also asked the Deputy Commissioner of Chandel to oversee the push back exercise and maintain their biometrics.