Northeast Desk, 20th September: The United Committee Manipur (UCM) has expressed strong condemnation over the Centre’s reported decision to halt fencing work along the Indo-Myanmar border in Kuki-dominated areas. UCM President YK Dhiren voiced concern about the increasing cross-border movement and the influx of illegal immigrants, particularly in regions along the border.
During a media address, Dhiren urged the government to prioritize and complete border fencing, especially in areas like Sagang Division, which borders Chin State in Myanmar. He emphasized that the ongoing border issues have exacerbated the crisis in Manipur, which has persisted for the past 16 months.
Dhiren also raised doubts about the Centre’s intentions, hinting that the decision to halt the fencing might be part of a hidden agenda aimed at maintaining unrest in the region. He referenced Union Minister Amit Shah’s previous statements, which acknowledged that the illegal immigrant issue and drug trafficking were key factors contributing to the unrest in Manipur.
The UCM vowed to press both the Central and State governments to resume and complete the fencing work to prevent further escalation of tensions in the region.