Manipur CM Urges Union Home Ministry to Cease Free Movement on India-Myanmar Border

IMPHAL: Manipur's Chief Minister, N Biren Singh, has called upon the Union Home Ministry to put an end to the free movement policy along the India-Myanmar border and accelerate the border's fencing efforts. The free movement policy currently permits individuals residing in close proximity to the India-Myanmar border to cross 16 kilometers into each other's territories without requiring documentation.

Speaking before reporters, Chief Minister Singh emphasized the government's commitment to address the issue of "illegal immigration" and underscored the necessity for a comprehensive border fence along the India-Myanmar border.

He noted, "The Union Home Ministry has already initiated fencing measures along a 60-kilometer stretch of the international border in Manipur."

Chief Minister Singh attributed the current situation to the unplanned policies of previous administrations rather than any recent decisions. He asserted that the government has formally petitioned the Union Home Ministry to discontinue the free movement policy. Additionally, he criticized the security forces for not adequately guarding the border, highlighting that they were stationed 14-15 kilometers inside Indian territory instead of at the zero-point.

Singh emphasized the pressing issues facing the state, including handling the influx of illegal immigrants, launching welfare programs for internally displaced individuals, and combating widespread poppy cultivation.

The ongoing violence in Manipur, which commenced on May 3 during a 'Tribal Solidarity March' organized in the hill districts, has resulted in over 175 fatalities and numerous injuries. The violence stems from protests by the majority Meitei community demanding Scheduled Tribe status. Manipur's population comprises Meiteis (53%), primarily residing in the Imphal valley, and tribals, including Nagas and Kukis (40%). Manipur Chief Minister calls for an end to the free movement policy along the India-Myanmar border and urges complete border fencing amid concerns over illegal immigration and recent violence.nly residing in the hill districts.

Allegations have surfaced linking recent violence to illegal immigrants from Myanmar, as Manipur shares a 390-kilometer border with Myanmar. A Meitei organization has argued that the ongoing strife reflects tensions related to deforestation, illegal opium poppy cultivation, and demographic shifts driven by illegal immigrants from Myanmar. Reports also suggest the supply of firearms to militants in Manipur from Myanmar.

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