India Deports 38 Myanmar Nationals in First Batch

In a significant step towards ensuring border security and sovereignty, the Indian state of Manipur has deported 38 illegal immigrants from Myanmar, marking the initial phase of the deportation process. The individuals exited India through the Moreh border on May 2, 2024.

Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh characterized the deportation process as non-discriminatory, emphasizing the state government's commitment to identifying and addressingillegal immigrationconcerns. The collection of biometric data has been a crucial aspect of the effort to safeguard national borders.

Why this matters: The deportation of illegal immigrants from Myanmar highlights the pressing issue of border security and the need for governments to address the multifaceted threats posed by unchecked immigration. Effective management of borders is crucial for maintaining national sovereignty, protecting indigenous populations, and preventing socio-economic and ecological challenges.

CM Biren Singh stated on his social media handle, "Without any discrimination, we have completed the first phase of deportation of illegal immigrants from Myanmar with 38 more immigrants leaving Manipur, India today through Moreh..."

The Chief Minister has expressed concerns over the proliferation of 996 new villages attributed to illegal immigration, highlighting the multifaceted threat posed by unchecked immigration. He emphasized that this unnatural growth poses a threat to the indigenous people and national security.

"Will anyone accept the unnatural growth of new villages and population, causing massive changes to the demography of the state and the country due to the influx of illegal immigrants?"CM Biren Singh questioned. "We're confronting a serious issue within our nation, especially in Manipur, where several new villages have emerged due to a massive influx of illegal immigrants from Myanmar since 2006 till date."

The illegal immigrants have encroached on resources, job opportunities, land, and the rights of the indigenous people. They have also engaged in illicit activities such as poppy cultivation, leading to socio-economic and ecological challenges in the region.

The Manipur government has initiated measures to address the issue, including collecting biometric data of illegal immigrants, geotagging their settlements, and enhancing security along the 400 km India-Myanmar border. "We have started collecting biometric data of the illegal immigrants besides geotagging their settlements," CM Biren Singh stated.

The deportation of 38 Myanmar nationals in the first batch underscores the Manipur government's resolve to tackle the issue of illegal immigration head-on. As the state continues its efforts to identify and deport illegal immigrants, it remains committed to protecting its borders, resources, and the rights of itsindigenous population.

Key Takeaways

• Manipur deports 38 illegal immigrants from Myanmar in first phase.
• Deportation process is non-discriminatory, focusing on border security.
• 996 new villages have sprouted up in Manipur due to illegal immigration.
• Illegal immigrants have encroached on resources, jobs, and indigenous rights.
• Manipur government collects biometric data, geotags settlements, and enhances border security.