Officials instructed to keep tab on refugees: Biren
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, December 16 2023: Informing that number of refugees from Myanmar entering the state in the recent days has reached around 6000, chief minister N Biren said that his government has issued instructions to all concerned for proper verification of the refugees by capturing biometrics.

He also said that the government is providing them temporary shelter on humanitarian ground as fighting between the Myanmar military Junta and anti-Junta forces intensifies in the border region.

Speaking as chief guest of the observance of Vijay Diwas, commemorating the victory in the Indo-Pak war of 1971, held at the banquet hall of 1st Bn Manipur Rifles, here, on Saturday, Biren said that it is the responsibility of every Indian to make a strong India.

It is a memorable and significant war for India's military history, the CM said, while sharing a brief history of the war and applauding the valour of Indian Army.

The CM further said that as part of India's foreign policy, it is very important to maintain a good diplomatic relation with the neighbouring countries.

He also highlighted efforts being made by Prime Minister Narendra Modi for promoting international relations with foreign nations including neighbours like Sri Lanka, Nepal, Bangladesh and Afghanistan.

Biren also applauded and appreciated all security forces, police in the state for their effort in tackling the present situation and in restoring peace in the state.

Sometimes, misunderstandings creep up, but through joint efforts of all security forces, state police and with support of the people, the situation has improved, he added.

Biren also said that the state should not take lightly what is happening in the border areas.

As fighting between Myanmar's Junta army and anti-Junta forces intensifies, several refugees from Myanmar are entering the state.

Efforts are underway in Kamjong and Ukhrul districts for proper verification of the Myanmarese nationals using biometrics under supervision of the DCs concerned.

Security forces should not neglect areas like Behiang and Sajik Tampak as there are reports of several Myanmarese nationals entering these areas for shelter.

As per latest reports, number Of refugees entering the state in recent days has reached around 6000 .

The government is providing temporary shelter and foods.

The government cannot deny humanitarian assistance to those fleeing their country due to the violence and has been providing medicines and tents for them.

Nevertheless, there is the need to identify them by collecting biometric data so that there can be no permanent settlement and they return to their country after the situation improves, he said.

However, the chief minister categorically stated that the refugees coming to the state to take shelter should not set up any villages.

While it is imperative to maintain a good diplomatic relationship with the neighbouring countries, under no circumstance should the shelter seekers construct villages in the state, he reiterated.

He also advised security forces deployed in border areas like Behiang in Churachandpur district should take with all seriousness reports of aggressive fighting in the neighbouring country.

Biren also said that the government has taken up measures to ensure safe travel along the two national highways.

The present crisis has severely affected the state's economy and opening the highways will bring some improvement in the economy, he contended.

Urging the public to refrain from sharing contents on social media that could incite further communal tension, he asked the cybercrime unit to be vigilant of such posts and take swift action accordingly.

Artistes of the Shri Shri Bal Mukunda Dev Government Music College, Imphal performed the opening and closing songs of the observance.

Power minister Th Biswajit presided over the function, which was also attended by ministers, MLAs, security advisor Kuldiep Singh, chief secretary Dr Vineet Joshi, and senior officials of civil and police departments.

Later, the CM, accompanied by PHE minister L Susindro, inspected the ongoing construction work of the Police HQ in Mantripukhri and PHE building in Khoyathong.

Biren also attended a function for distribution of potato seeds organised by Economic & Resource Development Organisation (ERDO) at the CM's secretariat.

At the event, Biren lauded and appreciated ERDO and said that their policy of providing seeds and then buying back the harvested potatoes from the farmers is a laudable initiative.

The CM also highlighted developmental schemes like CMHT, School Fagathansi Mission, Start-up implemented by the government for the welfare of the people and said that the state is going forward and quality of life has improved significantly.

Commissioner (horticulture & soil conservation) T Panmei also attended the function.

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