Former Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh has appealed to the Governor to continue implementing the central government's guidelines for the identification and deportation of illegal immigrants. He expressed concerns about Manipur's security and cultural identity.
Manipur News: Former Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh recently wrote a letter to Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla expressing deep concern over the growing problem of illegal immigrants in Manipur. He demanded an acceleration of the process for identifying and deporting illegal immigrants from Bangladesh and Myanmar. He also lauded the Ministry of Home Affairs' directives for identifying and deporting illegal immigrants within 30 days, appealing for their continued implementation.
The Problem of Illegal Immigrants in Manipur
In his letter, Biren Singh mentioned that the increasing number of illegal immigrants in Manipur poses a threat to the state's cultural identity and social fabric. He stated that since 2017, the state government has identified thousands of illegal immigrants through various identification drives. Specifically, a three-member cabinet sub-committee formed in 2023 identified 5,457 illegal immigrants, mostly from Myanmar.
The former Chief Minister also stated that these illegal immigrants have led to an unexpected increase in the number of new villages and settlements in the state, resulting in encroachment on forest land and increased pressure on resources. Furthermore, he mentioned the involvement of illegal immigrants in armed groups and the drug trade.
Ministry of Home Affairs' Directives and Biren Singh's Response
Biren Singh appreciated the Ministry of Home Affairs' directives for identifying and deporting illegal immigrants within 30 days. He described it as the fulfillment of a long-held dream and appealed to the Governor to effectively implement these directives.
Security Reduction
The former Chief Minister's security detail has recently been reduced. According to an order issued by the Manipur Police, 17 personnel have been removed from his security team. He will now be accompanied by only six security personnel: three Assistant Sub-Inspectors, one Head Constable, and two Constables. This decision was made following his resignation on February 9, 2025, and the imposition of President's rule in Manipur on February 13.
