Manipur Seeks Report from Assam Rifles on Entry of Over 718 Myanmar Nationals Without Travel Documents

New Delhi, July 25, 2023: The Manipur government has raised concerns and sought a detailed report from the Assam Rifles regarding the entry of more than 718 Myanmar nationals, including 301 children, into India without proper travel documents. The influx occurred over just two days, between July 22 and 23, raising questions about border security and immigration protocols.

In a communication to the Assam Rifles, Manipur’s chief secretary, Vineet Joshi, emphasized that the state had previously informed the border guarding force to take strict action to prevent entry of Myanmar nationals without valid visas or travel documents, as per the instructions of the Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India.

The Assam Rifles had earlier informed the deputy commissioner of Chandel district about the arrival of 718 fresh refugees crossing the Indo-Myanmar border and entering Manipur. The situation was attributed to the ongoing clashes at Khampat.

Seeking clarity on the circumstances that allowed the influx, Joshi urged the Assam Rifles to provide a comprehensive report on the matter. The state government also directed the authorities to push back these 718 illegal Myanmar nationals immediately.

Additionally, the Manipur Police registered an FIR to address a “fake news” item circulating in the state. A video showing the killing of a woman in Myanmar was falsely depicted as an incident in Manipur, leading to potential unrest. Efforts are underway to apprehend those responsible for spreading the misinformation.

The tension in Manipur escalated after a video surfaced, showing two women from opposing communities being paraded naked by a mob. This incident, along with clashes between different ethnic groups, has led to more than 160 fatalities and several injuries since May 3. The violence was triggered by a ‘Tribal Solidarity March’ organized by hill districts to protest against the Meitei community’s demand for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status.

As the situation remains tense and complex, the Manipur government and security forces are taking measures to address the issues at hand and ensure the safety of both the affected communities and refugees from Myanmar.