Manipuri Society and Students Demand Action against Influx of Illegal Migrants from Myanmar

Members of Manipuri civil society and student organizations recently held a peace rally at Jantar Mantar, New Delhi, demanding that the Indian government checks the influx of “illegal migrants” into Manipur from Myanmar. Organized by the Manipur Coordinating Committee, the rally was attended by a large number of residents from the northeastern Indian state. Participants expressed their concern about ‘external aggression’ and divisive forces that are threatening peace in Manipur. They called on the government to stop the entry of illegal migrants from Myanmar who they claim are responsible for unrest and violence in the state. The committee members also voiced their concern over the rise in poppy cultivation, mainly fueled by illegal migrants, which is causing deforestation on the region’s hills. The rally participants also expressed solidarity with the Manipuri Kukis, who are their brothers, sisters, and relatives, but called on the government to check the violence by Kuki militants who migrated from Myanmar. At least 98 people were killed, and 310 were injured in ethnic violence that broke out in Manipur a month ago, with 37,450 people currently sheltered in 272 relief camps. The violence broke out after a Tribal Solidarity March was organized on May 3 in the hill districts to protest against the Meitei community’s demand for Scheduled Tribe status. The Manipuri Kukis account for about 53 percent of the population and reside mostly in the Imphal Valley. On the other hand, the tribal Nagas and Kukis make up 40 percent of the state’s population and reside in the hill districts. The rally participants have called on all stakeholders to come together to bring peace and development to Manipur.