Amid ongoing crisis in neighbouring
country Myanmar, bordering Indian State of Manipur has been subjected to a
significant refugee crisis. Subsequently, Chief Minister N Biren Singh has expressed
concerns about the probability for illegal settlements and the need for
proactive security measures, including biometric systems, to manage the
situation effectively.
CM Singh reported that near about 6,000
individuals from Myanmar have sought refuge after violence broke out in there.
The illegal infiltration of refugees is
a direct outcome of the violence and military coup in Myanmar, which has led to
widespread unrest and the displacement of civilians.
The refugees began trespassing into
Manipur seeking safety after a military coup in Myanmar in 2021. However, their
quest for peace was met with further turmoil as they found themselves caught
amid ethnic conflicts between the Kukis and Meiteis in Manipur that erupted in
May.
This violence has resulted in high
number of casualties and displacement within the State, exacerbating the
challenges faced by the incoming refugees.
However, CM Singh has acknowledged the
humanitarian imperative to provide shelter and food to those fleeing the
conflict in Myanmar.
Resultantly, the Manipur Government has
taken measures to address the infiltration crisis, such as setting up temporary
shelter homes in border towns like Moreh, Tengnoupal, and Chandel districts to
accommodate the immigrants.
Additionally, the State has been vigilant
about the influx of foreign refugees, with the Assam Rifles being ordered to
maintain strict vigilance along the Bharat-Myanmar border.
The refugee situation is further
complicated by the broader geopolitical context, including Myanmar’s
relationship with China and the impact of the military junta’s activities on
regional stability.
The Manipur Government has been vigilant
about the implications of these developments for the State’s security, mainly given
the long border it shares with Myanmar and the ethnic similarities between the
populations.
As the crisis evolves, the Manipur Government
remains focused on managing the delicate balance between providing humanitarian
assistance to those in need and ensuring the security and legal integrity of
the State’s borders.
NE Watch Desk
