Leishiyo Keishing, an MLA in Manipur, has written a letter to Chief Minister N Biren Singh requesting measures to deport the refugees from Myanmar back to their respective places.
In the letter, addressed to the Chief Minister on May 9, the MLA from Phungyar (ST) Assembly Constituency raised concerns about threats caused by the influx of illegal immigrants from Myanmar into the state.
He said over 5,800 illegal migrants from Myanmar had entered Manipur since November 2023. Biometric data for 5,173 persons has been captured under the supervision of district administration.
He stressed instances of local residents being subjected to violence over disputes related to daily wages and domestic matters, exacerbating law enforcement challenges in the border areas. Even the local customary laws cannot exert control over the refugees due to their adherence to customs and beliefs.
MLA raised concerns over the safety and security of local residents, citing incidents of killings and kidnapping allegedly perpetrated by immigrants who evade apprehension by crossing the border into Myanmar.
MLA urged the Chief Minister to take up urgent measures to find a suitable plan and arrangement to deport the refugees to their respective villages in their country or find a suitable place to shelter them under strict supervision.
MLA also cautioned against granting Indian citizenship to the refugees, citing historical precedents from 1968. He further urged to strengthen armed police in the border areas.