AT hails MHA directive on illegal influx
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, May 20 2025: While extending its support to the directives on detection and deportation of illegal immigrants issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), the Arambai Tenggol strongly called for robust enforcement of the directive and implementation of NRC in Manipur.

According to a statement from Arambai Tenggol, the MHA directive, coupled with the proposed 30-day deadline for verifying the credentials of undocumented individuals from Bangladesh and Myanmar before facing potential deportation, is a vital step forward in safeguarding the nation's security and the future of Manipur.

Asserting that the organisation has been at the forefront of highlighting challenges posed by unchecked illegal immigration and consistently advocated for rigorous implementation of the National Register of Citizenship (NRC), the Arambai Tenggol statement maintained that NRC is an indispensable tool for accurately identifying individuals, differentiating citizens from illegal immigrants and addressing the deeply concerning issues that stem from influx.

The presence of illegal immigrants from Bangladesh and Myanmar is not merely an administrative challenge but constitutes a multifaceted crisis threatening the very fabric of Manipur society and stability of the region, it pointed out.

Sharing organisation's observations and experiences on the ground which paint a grim picture, the Arambai Tenggol said illegal immigrants are significantly involved in narco-terrorism, a scourge that is destroying lives and fuelling instability in Manipur.

"This nexus of illegal immigration and drug trafficking is a direct threat to public health, law and order and the economic well-being of the people," it contended, adding that illegal occupation of reserve forest land by immigrants is causing irreparable environmental damage and encroaching upon vital natural resources.

"Such land grabbing is not only illegal but also exacerbates existing social and economic pressures on the indigenous population.

One of the most insidious consequences of unchecked illegal immigration is its impact on democratic process," it further cautioned.

According to the organisation, the potential for illegal immigrants to disrupt the electoral process by illicitly acquiring identification or influencing voting patterns is a direct challenge to the sovereignty and democratic integrity of the nation.

"Above all, the continued presence and activities of illegal immigrants from Bangladesh and Myanmar represent one of the biggest and most complex challenges to national security.

This is not a localised issue as it has implications for border security, internal stability and diplomatic relations," the statement added.

The Arambai Tenggol also reminded that while the organisation recognises the complexities involved in the issue, it firmly believes that the time for hesitation has passed.

Commending the MHA for its clear directive, the organisation urged all relevant authorities, particularly in Manipur, to implement the instructions with utmost rigor and urgency.

The Arambai Tenggol also called for a comprehensive and multi-pronged approach including swift detection, identity checks, transparent deportation procedures and expedite implementation of NRC .

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