Northeast Desk, 15th May: Manipur MLA Leishiyo Keishing has raised alarms over the increasing number of illegal immigrants from Myanmar settling in Kamjong district, urging Chief Minister N Biren Singh to take decisive action.
Keishing, representing the Phungyar Assembly Constituency, has called for either the deportation of these immigrants back to Myanmar or the provision of proper shelter under strict supervision. He expressed concern that the growing number of immigrants could soon surpass the local population, instilling fear among residents.
In a letter to the Chief Minister dated May 9, Keishing detailed that the ongoing political turmoil in Myanmar has triggered a steady influx of immigrants since November 2023. The Kamjong district administration has already recorded the biometrics of 5,173 out of over 5,800 immigrants.
The letter highlighted that the immigrants, residing in various shelter homes, now outnumber locals in multiple areas: 1,591 in Phaikoh, 661 in Shangkalok/Khenroram/H Thana, 356 in Skippe, 595 in Pilong, 414 in Aloyo and Choro, 512 in Wanglee, 971 in Namlee, and 357 in K Ashang Khullen Aze. These shelters, under state government supervision, provide essential needs like food, water, and power.
However, Keishing noted numerous incidents where locals were assaulted over daily wage disputes and domestic issues, which local law enforcement struggles to manage due to limited personnel. The MLA also mentioned that local customary laws are ineffective against the immigrants’ foreign practices.
Keishing reported incidents of killings and kidnappings by immigrants, who evade capture by crossing the border. He stressed the need for either deportation or strict supervision of the immigrants, cautioning against granting them Indian citizenship to avoid repeating historical mistakes from 1968.
Keishing also recommended bolstering armed police presence in border areas to better control the situation.
Read More: Sikkim Cricketer Nilesh Lamichaney Scores Century for Barnoldswick Cricket Club in England