The northeastern states of India and Myanmar find themselves interconnected in ways that transcend borders, as the disturbances in one country’s democratic structure have far-reaching implications on the other. Manipur, Mizoram, Nagaland, and Arunachal Pradesh share a porous border of over 1600 kilometres with Myanmar, creating an opportune gateway for illicit transactions due to the presence of ethnic and familial ties.
Manipur’s Chandel district recently witnessed an influx of over 700 illegal immigrants, including 301 children, raising concerns about border security. The Manipur government ordered the setup of temporary shelter homes to accommodate over 5000 immigrants who fled the war-torn country of Myanmar.
Myanmar itself has entered a violent new chapter with widespread opposition to the military junta, resulting in a brutal crackdown on opposition forces and protesters. The rising Chinese influence in Myanmar adds to the security concerns in Manipur, given the long border and ethnic similarities between the two regions.
Manipur Chief Minister Biren Singh has accused immigrants from Myanmar of engaging in deforestation, poppy cultivation, and drug-related nuisances. In the past two years, 104 illegal immigrants have been held in detention centers for illegal activities.
The Rohingya refugee crisis, which began in 2017, has further complicated the situation. Escalating violence in Myanmar’s Rakhine State led to a mass exodus of Rohingya refugees to nearby Bangladesh. The ongoing armed conflict in Myanmar continues to cause instability in the region, affecting the Neighboring Indian states as well.
To address security concerns, the Manipur government has deployed additional security forces and the Assam Rifles along the India-Myanmar border. Plans for setting up temporary shelter homes in border towns are also underway to accommodate the influx of immigrants.
In response to the security challenges, the Indian government has announced the construction of barbed wire fencing along 400 kilometres of the India-Myanmar border with Manipur. This move aims to strengthen border security and curb illicit activities.
News Mania Desk / Agnibeena Ghosh 6th August 2023
