Imphal: Home department, Government of Manipur has sought detailed report from Assam Rifles authority to clarify on the facts and compelling circumstances/reasons, as to why and how 718 Myanmar nationals were allowed to enter into India in Chandel district without proper travel documents; along with strict advice to push back those 718 illegal Myanmar nationals immediately.
Chandel district neighbors Myanmar to the south, Churachandpur district on the south and west, Ukhrul district on the east and Thoubal district on north.
The press release signed by chief secretary, Government of Manipur Dr. Vineet Joshi dated July 24, 2023 came in the wake of receiving report from the headquarters 28 Sector Assam Rifles that 718 fresh refugees have crossed Indo-Myanmar Border (IMB) and entered in the general area of New Lajang (Latitude-23’51’11” and Longitude- 94°09’15”) of Chandel District as on July 23, 2023 due to the ongoing clashes at Khampat (Opposite BP 58), a town in the Sagaing Region in western Myanmar.
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As per the report from Assam Rifles, at least 718 Myanmar nationals including 209 men, 208 women and 301 children have entered Manipur’s Chandel district and are staying at Lajang (13), Bonse (38), New Samtal (89), New Lajang (230), Yangnomphai (143), Yangnomphai Saw Mill (175) and Aivomjang (30).
Home Department says that in connection with similar issues in the past, the state government had clearly informed Assam Rifles, being the Border Guarding Force, to take strict action to prevent entry of Myanmar nationals into Manipur on any ground without valid visa/travel documents as per instruction of the Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India.
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The Home Department says the state government views the fresh illegal entry of 718 refugees very seriously with utmost sensitivity as the same may have international ramifications more particularly in view of the ongoing law and order issues. It has also advised Deputy Commissioner and Superintendent of Police of Chandel District to oversee the implementation of the above and also keep biometrics and photographs of all such persons.
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