Ex-Manipur CM Vows to Combat Illegal Immigration

Click to start listening
Ex-Manipur CM Vows to Combat Illegal Immigration

Synopsis

Former Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh has reiterated his commitment to fighting illegal immigration, citing threats to the state's identity and demographic balance. He urges authorities to take action against undetected immigrants while emphasizing the ongoing challenges faced by the state.

Key Takeaways

  • N Biren Singh pledges to combat illegal immigration.
  • Threats to land and identity of Manipur highlighted.
  • Concern over an unguarded 398 km border with Myanmar.
  • Call for increased efforts to identify and deport illegal immigrants.
  • Impact of illegal immigration on societal fabric discussed.

Imphal, Feb 13 (NationPress) Former Chief Minister of Manipur N Biren Singh declared on Thursday his steadfast commitment to combat illegal immigration, asserting that “our land and identity are under threat”.

In reference to a social media post he shared on November 8, 2022, Singh remarked: “Our land and identity are under threat. With a small population and limited resources, we stand vulnerable. I monitored and detected illegal immigration tirelessly until May 2, 2023. However, following the tragic events of May 3, 2023, our state machinery has found it challenging to respond effectively.”

In his previous post, he noted: “Myanmar nationals with a deceased Indian Aadhar Card - the Indigenous people of Manipur are threatened by illegal immigrants from Bangladesh and Myanmar,” highlighting the case of Lenkhenmang Mate (26 years old) from Tuivang Village, Myanmar, who was arrested with an Indian Aadhar card.

Three years ago, Singh shared a photograph of a man holding a “fake” Aadhar card. In his recent post, he questioned: “How many more remain undetected till today? My Dear Indigenous Friends, our land and identity are under threat.” He emphasized the vulnerability of the state due to its small population and limited resources, reiterating his efforts to monitor illegal immigration until May 2, 2023.

Singh pointed out the unguarded 398 km border with Myanmar and the Free Movement Regime (FMR) as factors that are swiftly altering Manipur’s demographic landscape. He stated: “This is not speculation; it is happening before our eyes.” He noted that the challenges have intensified since the government took charge in March 2017, and after the May 3, 2023 incident, the situation has become even more dire. “Manipur is a small state with a small population and no significant resources. We have only three MPs to represent us in the nation’s highest decision-making body, yet we have always stood with pride, resilience, and an unbreakable spirit,” Singh asserted, stressing that illegal immigration is on the rise and threatens the very fabric of society.

“So far, we have only identified a fraction of those who have entered our land. But what about the ones who remain undetected to this day? I urge all concerned authorities to take serious note and intensify efforts to detect and deport illegal immigrants from Manipur. As for me, I will continue this fight with unwavering commitment in every way I can. The challenge before us is not just ours alone; it carries consequences far beyond our border,” he stated.

Singh previously claimed that illegal migrants from Myanmar have altered the demographics of Manipur, with some involved in unlawful poppy cultivation within forested areas.