Manipur Govt Deports 26 Myanmar Nationals for Illegal Border Crossing

IMPHAL: In a decisive action underscoring its firm stance on addressing illegal immigration, the Manipur Government on Sunday detained 26 Myanmar nationals who had unlawfully entered India through the state's porous border and subsequently deported them to their home country.

Chief Minister N Biren Singh, in a post on X, reaffirmed the state government's commitment to offering humanitarian aid to those escaping conflict in Myanmar.

CM Singh stated that the state has ensured migrants receive proper care and support during their stay in India, prioritizing their dignity and well-being.

However, officials emphasized that illegal migrants would not be permitted to stay in Manipur beyond a temporary period.

It is worth noting that the Manipur government has temporarily suspended the Free Movement Regime (FMR) at all India-Myanmar border checkposts, closing the gates to prevent unauthorized crossings. This measure is part of broader efforts to address security and migration concerns in the region.

The central government has also put forward a proposal to build a border fence along the India-Myanmar border, which spans several states, including Manipur.

In fact, work on constructing at least 30 kilometers of border fencing has already begun in Manipur to enhance border security and curb further illegal crossings.

In December of last year, the Union Ministry of Home Affairs notified the Manipur Government about a new scheme permitting Myanmar residents living within 10 km of the border to enter Manipur, provided they obtain a "border pass" from the Assam Rifles.

Officials familiar with the matter added that this facility would also be available to residents of Manipur's border areas wishing to visit villages across the Myanmar border.

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