As a border state, Manipur has been grappling with infiltration issues. Chief Minister N Biren Singh informed the assembly that in the past five years, 10,675 illegal immigrants have been identified. During this period, 85 individuals have been deported. The Chief Minister stated that 143 individuals are currently in detention centers.
CM N Biren Singh mentioned that the illegal immigrants primarily hail from Myanmar, Bangladesh, Norway, China, and Nepal. This question was raised by legislator Surajkumar Okram in the assembly, where the Chief Minister provided a response. He also disclosed that maintaining the 143 detainees in the centers has cost Rs. 85,55,761.
How Many Illegal Immigrants and Where?
According to CM Biren Singh, 11 individuals reside illegally in Imphal West. Meanwhile, there's one in Imphal East, one in Bishnupur, one in Thoubal, six in Kakching, 150 in Churachandpur, 1,895 in Chandel, 2,406 in Tengnoupal, three in Ukhrul, two in Kangpokpi, and 6,199 in Kamjong.
Border Fencing Completed Over 9 Kilometers
In the assembly, the Manipur CM revealed a committee has been formed to deter illegal infiltration. Under the supervision of the Home Ministry, a verification campaign starting March 2023 is ongoing across Churachandpur, Chandel, Tengnoupal, Kamjong, and Pherzawl districts to identify foreigners. He noted border fencing spans 9.12 kilometers between pillar numbers 79 and 81.
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120 Kilometers of Border Fencing Planned
The Home Ministry has sanctioned 120 kilometers of border fencing in Manipur, exceeding the original demand for 80 kilometers. Physical work is ongoing over a 21.86-kilometer stretch. Additionally, district police are working tirelessly to identify illegal immigrants day and night. Plans to build six police stations and 34 outposts in border areas are also underway.
