The hill states of Manipur and Mizoram have recently come under the spotlight due to significant issues of illegal migration and arms smuggling. The Union home ministry’s directive to register biographic and biometric details of ‘illegal migrants’ in these two states has sparked discussions about the extent of the problem and the measures being taken to address it. This article sheds light on the current scenario and the actions being undertaken to tackle these issues effectively.

In a bid to identify and address the presence of illegal migrants, the Union home ministry has initiated a comprehensive campaign in Manipur and Mizoram. The respective state governments have been tasked with swiftly implementing the plan and capturing the biometric data of these individuals. The deadline for completing this exercise has been set for September 30.

The state government of Manipur had already taken steps to identify illegal migrants earlier this year. By following a standardized format provided by the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB), nearly 2500 illegal migrants were successfully identified. Now, with the support of the central government, this process will be extended to Mizoram as well. The involvement of both states showcases a unified approach towards addressing this pressing issue.

Arms Smuggling via Myanmar

In a shocking revelation, intelligence sources have uncovered the route through which arms are being smuggled into Manipur, exacerbating the security situation. It has been discovered that a significant consignment of weapons was received in Manipur via the Myanmar route in June 2023. Active insurgent groups in Manipur have procured a large cache of these weapons, which were transported in three vehicles. The primary source of these weapons is suspected to be the Black Market situated on the Myanmar-China border.

Intelligence agencies are increasingly concerned about the ease with which militant outfits are transporting weapons through the porous Indo-Myanmar border. This accessibility has become a cause for alarm, as it allows arms to reach Manipur, exacerbating the security situation and fueling violence. Tightening security measures along this border has become imperative to curb the flow of illegal weapons and prevent further unrest in Manipur.

The government’s proactive approach in tackling the challenges of illegal migration and arms smuggling in Manipur and Mizoram deserves commendation. By implementing a campaign to capture biometric data, the authorities aim to identify and address the issue of illegal migrants effectively. Additionally, addressing arms smuggling through enhanced security measures along the Indo-Myanmar border is crucial to maintaining peace and stability in the region.

As the September 30 deadline approaches, it is essential for the state governments, central agencies, and local law enforcement to collaborate closely and ensure the successful completion of the biometric data capture campaign. Simultaneously, efforts to fortify the Indo-Myanmar border must be intensified to prevent the influx of illegal weapons. Only through a comprehensive and coordinated approach can Manipur and Mizoram overcome these challenges and restore peace and security to their communities.