Imphal, July 25 (FN Agency) Manipur government has asked the Assam Rifles and state machinery to take biometrics and push back 718 Myanmar illegal immigrants who came to Manipur during July. Chief Secretary Vineet Joshi said in a press statement that Headquarters 28 Sector Assam Rifles informed that 718 fresh refugees crossed the Indo-Meridian Border (IMB) and entered New Lajang, Chandel District, on July 23 due to the ongoing clashes at Khampat, Myanmar. The State Government had clearly informed the Assam Rifles, being the Border Guarding Force, to take strict action to prevent entry of Myanmar nationals into Manipur on any ground without valid visas or travel documents as per the instruction of the Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India, the Chief Secretary said. The State Government views the fresh illegal entry of 718 refugees very seriously and with utmost sensitivity as the same may have international ramifications, particularly in view of the ongoing law and order issues, the statement said.
The State Government has sought a detailed report from the Assam Rifles Authority to clarify the facts and compelling circumstances or reasons as to why and how these 718 Myanmar nationals were allowed to enter India in Chandel District without proper travel documents, along with strict advice to push back those 718 illegal Myanmar nationals immediately. The Deputy Commissioner and Superintendent of Police of Chandel District have biometrics and photographs of all such persons. Manipur Police, during a recent drive, found large numbers of Myanmar citizens in Churachandpur district, and ten Myanmar citizens were found at Churachandpur hospital. Most of the Myanmar citizens move towards Churachandpur district as they belong to the same ethnic group and speak the same language.