Amidst the ongoing unrest, Manipur finds itself grappling with an unexpected influx of Myanmar nationals. On July 22 and 23, a total of 718 individuals, including 301 children, sought refuge in Manipur. The Manipur government has taken action, ordering the Assam Rifles to “push back” these nationals and demanding an explanation of how they managed to enter India without proper documents.

The situation came to light when 28 Sector Assam Rifles wrote to the deputy commissioner of Manipur’s Chandel district, reporting the arrival of 718 Myanmar nationals along the Indo-Myanmar border. The district witnessed this sudden surge of immigrants from six different locations. The Assam Rifles attributed their arrival to the ongoing clashes in Khampat, western Myanmar. According to the Assam Rifles’ report, there were 301 children, 208 women, and 209 men seeking refuge in Manipur. The gravity of the situation prompted the Assam Rifles to request the deputy commissioner’s presence for a “joint verification” of the immigrants.

The Manipur home department, concerned about the entry of these nationals without proper documents, demanded a detailed report from the Assam Rifles. The government wanted to understand the circumstances that led to their entry and questioned the apparent lapse in border security protocols. A statement from the home department clarified the state government’s stance on the matter. In the past, the state government had instructed the Assam Rifles to prevent the entry of Myanmar nationals without valid visa or travel documents. The government viewed this influx with utmost seriousness, acknowledging its potential international ramifications, especially considering the ongoing law and order situation.

The issue of “illegal immigration” from Myanmar has been a recurring concern among the Meitei community in Manipur. Their clashes with the Kuki-Zomi community have further complicated the situation. Chief Minister Biren Singh’s accusations of Kukis in Churachandpur district providing shelter to immigrants from Myanmar have added to the tensions. These accusations have fueled discontent among the Kuki community.

It is important to note that neighboring Mizoram has been accommodating over 35,000 refugees from Myanmar, despite the central government’s instructions not to do so. The state government of Mizoram has extended support to these displaced individuals, offering them shelter and assistance.

In contrast to Mizoram’s actions, the Manipur government has been working diligently to tackle the issue of “illegal immigrants.” They have formed a Population Commission tasked with identifying such individuals and implementing measures to address the situation.

As the situation unfolds, the Manipur government continues to monitor the influx of Myanmar nationals closely. The state’s authorities are determined to enforce stringent border control measures to maintain security and stability. However, it remains crucial to address the root causes of the influx to ensure the safety and well-being of those seeking refuge in India.