Why is the Former Manipur CM Calling for More Forces at the Mizoram Border?
Synopsis
In a significant call for action, former Manipur CM N. Biren Singh advocates for increased security forces at the Mizoram border to combat illegal immigration from Myanmar, urging a united front against the challenges posed by refugees and drug trafficking. His insights highlight the ongoing crisis and the need for robust measures.
Key Takeaways
Need for enhanced security along the Manipur-Mizoram border.
Ongoing refugee crisis stemming from the Myanmar coup.
Importance of a united response to illegal immigration and drug trafficking.
Call for a balanced approach considering both security and humanitarian issues.
Engagement with local communities in security measures.
Imphal, Oct 26 (NationPress): The former Chief Minister of Manipur, N. Biren Singh, has highlighted the pressing need for the deployment of sufficient police and security forces along the border with Mizoram to mitigate the influx of illegal immigrants from Myanmar.
Manipur’s Churachandpur and Pherzawl districts are bordered by approximately 95 km of inter-state boundary with Mizoram. Both Manipur and Mizoram possess 398 km and 510 km of unfenced frontiers, respectively, with Myanmar, which are susceptible to unauthorized crossings, cross-border activities, and rampant smuggling.
During a media interaction at a recent event, Singh pointed out that a significant number of refugees currently residing in Mizoram had escaped due to the military coup in Myanmar that occurred in February 2021.
“The situation in Manipur is distinct as the influx from Myanmar has been ongoing for an extended period. Robust security protocols must be established along the Manipur-Mizoram border to prevent any further displacement of Myanmarese refugees into Manipur,” Singh stated.
His comments followed the Mizo Students’ Union's appeal to the Mizoram government to dismantle villages reportedly set up illegally by migrants from Myanmar. Currently, around 31,300 Myanmar refugees are living in designated camps and with relatives or in rented accommodations across all 11 districts of Mizoram.
“If the Mizoram government takes action against these illegal settlements, what measures will be in place next? Given that Manipur shares a border with Mizoram, who will monitor and halt the flow of illegal immigrants expelled from Mizoram?” the former Chief Minister questioned.
Singh further asserted that law enforcement personnel from the Naga, Meitei, and Kuki communities should be assigned to the Mizoram-Manipur border to avert infiltration. He also expressed his intention to soon appeal to Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla for the deployment of state forces along the Mizoram border to curb the flow of illegal immigrants.
“I urge all of Manipur to unite on matters concerning illegal immigration and drug-related issues,” Singh emphasized.
Before his resignation on February 9, Singh had consistently voiced his concerns regarding the unlawful influx from Myanmar.
On multiple occasions, he highlighted that migrants from Myanmar are significantly involved in illegal poppy farming on government and protected forest lands, along with extensive drug trafficking across the border.
Point of View
It is essential to recognize the complexities surrounding the issue of illegal immigration and border security in Manipur and Mizoram. The situation necessitates a balanced approach that considers humanitarian concerns while also addressing the legitimate security challenges posed by unauthorized migration.
NationPress
8 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted N. Biren Singh's call for more forces at the border?
Singh's call was prompted by the ongoing influx of illegal immigrants from Myanmar, particularly following the military coup in February 2021, which has led to a significant increase in the number of refugees in Mizoram.
How long is the border between Manipur and Mizoram?
The inter-state border between Manipur and Mizoram stretches approximately 95 km.
What issues are associated with the border between Manipur and Myanmar?
The border is prone to illegal infiltration, cross-border movement, and rampant smuggling, making it critical to enhance security measures.
What is the current status of refugees in Mizoram?
Currently, nearly 31,300 Myanmar refugees are sheltered in camps, with relatives, or in rented houses across Mizoram.
What solutions does Singh propose to manage the situation?
Singh suggests deploying state police personnel from various communities along the border and implementing strict security measures to prevent further influx of illegal immigrants.
