The Civil Society Coalition for Human Rights in Manipur and United Nations (CSCHR) has expressed concerns over allegedly inaccurate information presented by the International Commission of Jurists (ICJ) regarding the deportation of illegal Myanmarese immigrants from Manipur to Myanmar.
CSCHR stated that the ICJ’s response to the human rights situation in Manipur was contradictory to the observed reality.
In a letter to the president and secretary of the ICJ, CSCHR convenor Phulindro Konsam indicated that the ICJ’s conclusions on illegal immigration and exodus from Myanmar to Manipur appeared to be based on misinformed sources, not aligning with the ground reality observed over the years.
CSCHR asserts that the recent repatriation of 77 Myanmar nationals was voluntary and not forcible. According to Phulindro Konsam, the repatriation, managed by district administrations on both sides, was a choice made by the individuals as the situation in their villages normalized.
CSCHR also provided data on the detection of illegal immigrants in Kamjong district as of May 2024, highlighting numerous cases but no instances of forcible deportation.
Phulindro Konsam noted the challenges faced by local law enforcement agencies, stating that the immigrant population has outnumbered local inhabitants in the Phungyar area villages of Kamjong.
Acknowledging ICJ’s concern for human rights, CSCHR urged that future statements and actions be based on accurate information and a thorough understanding of the situation on the ground.
CSCHR reiterated its readiness to cooperate with ICJ to uphold human rights and ensure justice for those in need.
