The Tangkhul Naga Aze Longphang (TNAL), a consortium representing Southern Tangkhul Nagas, urges Union Home Minister Amit Shah to either relocate or repatriate refugees from Kamjong district’s border areas in Manipur. This plea arises amid mounting concerns over the surging influx of undocumented migrants from Myanmar.
In a formal appeal submitted to the Home Minister on May 19, TNAL underscores Kamjong District’s plight. The district, sharing a 120-kilometer international border with Myanmar, grapples with a continuous surge in undocumented migrants since November 2023. This influx stems from the intense conflict between the People’s Defence Force (PDF) and Myanmar’s ruling Military Junta in the Sagaing region.
As per TNAL’s petition, the number of registered undocumented migrants exceeds 6,000, with biometric data collected for 5,173 individuals by the District Administration. Presently, these migrants find refuge in encampments within Kamjong District, where the District Administration provides essential amenities such as food, water, shelter, and other necessities.
Furthermore, TNAL’s representation delineates the current status of Myanmar migrants in Kamjong District as of May 19, 2024. Phaikoh village houses 1,591 migrants, Shangkalok or Khenroram accommodates 661, Skippe hosts 356, Pilong shelters 595, Aloyo and Choro provide refuge to 414, Wanglee houses 570, Namlee encompasses 1,087, and K Ashang Khullen Aze lodges 375.
TNAL questions whether the Home Minister’s repeal of the Free Movement Regime (FMR) exclusively targeted Indians, as undocumented migration from strife-torn Myanmar persists despite the FMR’s annulment.
Highlighting the challenges posed by the influx of undocumented migrants, TNAL warns of rising tensions, with local residents outnumbered and conflicts erupting over wages, fatalities, and abductions. The situation teeters on the brink of widespread violence.
In light of these concerns, TNAL fervently implores the Union Home Minister to act swiftly, either relocating or repatriating undocumented migrants from Kamjong District’s border areas. This action aims to safeguard both local residents and Myanmar migrants, proposing relocation beyond Kamjong District’s jurisdiction or prompt deportation to their native villages in Myanmar to avert further unrest in Manipur.
