Mizoram Rejects MHA Directive on Biometric Data Collection from Myanmar Refugees

AIZAWL: The government of Mizoram, led by Chief Minister Zoramthanga of the MNF party, has chosen not to comply with the directive issued by the BJP-led central government. The directive pertained to the collection of biometric data from Myanmar refugees who have sought refuge in the state.

This decision was made during a cabinet meeting held on Wednesday, as confirmed by Mizoram Minister Lalruatkima. Minister Lalruatkima explained that the collection of biometric data from Myanmar refugees would be considered discriminatory, as these refugees are regarded as kindred brothers and sisters by the state.

Informing about the decision, Mizoram minister Lalruatkima said: “Collection of biometric details of Myanmar refugees will be a discrimination as they are our kindred brothers and sisters.”

“So, the cabinet has decided not to go ahead with the process of collection of biometric details of the Myanmar refugees,” the Mizoram minister said.

The cabinet has, therefore, resolved not to proceed with the process of collecting biometric data from Myanmar refugees. It should be noted that the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) had instructed the governments of Mizoram and Manipur to complete the biometric data collection process for Myanmar refugees by September 30.

Official records indicate that Mizoram is currently hosting 35,126 Myanmar refugees. Among them, 15,589 are accommodated in relief camps, while 19,458 are residing in rented accommodations or with relatives. Mizoram shares a 500-kilometre-long international border with Myanmar, a significant portion of which is porous.

In other news from the state, a court in Mizoram convicted Kali Kumar Tongchangya, the former Chief Executive Member (CEM) of the Chakma Autonomous District Council (CADC), in a graft case. The judgement was delivered by Special Judge HTC Lalrinchana of the Aizawl district court, specializing in the prevention of corruption acts, on Monday, September 25. The court is scheduled to announce the quantum of punishment for Tongchangya on Tuesday, September 26, while also cancelling his bail bond due to his involvement in the graft case.

Also Read: Iraq Tragedy: Wedding Hall Fire in Northern Iraq Claims Over 100 Lives, Injures Scores

Also Watch: