Myanmar Nationals found overstaying jail terms
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, August 26 2023:
A number of Myanmar Nationals have been found confined in Foreigners Detention Centre, Sajiwa beyond their prison terms.
On the other hand, Manipur Human Rights Commission (MHRC) Chairperson Utpalendu Bikas Saha was visibly enraged on seeing the sloppy nature of detaining the foreigners.
A team of MHRC officials and media persons visited the Foreigners Detention Centre, Sajiwa today.
Around 105 Myanmar Nationals including 30 women and children who intruded into Manipur (India) illegally were found at the detention centre.
Some of the Myanmar Nationals disclosed that they were arrested by State authorities as they came to Churachandpur district, illegally from Myanmar through Mizoram.
Some others said they entered Manipur illegally through Moreh and other areas of Tengnoupal district.
Notably, a few of these illegal immigrants from Myanmar could speak broken Manipuri.
One Winpo from Sagaing region of Myanmar said that he has been staying in the Foreigners Detention Centre for over six months.
He disclosed that he came to Churachandpur from Myanmar through Mizoram.
Aung Kyaw Oo from Sagaing region said that he has completed one year and two months in the detention centre.
A few of the illegal women immigrants from Myanmar housed in a separate sector were found to be pregnant.
As the MHRC Chairperson detected certain lapses and grievances while interacting with the Myanmar detainees, he instructed the detention centre's authorities to follow proper guidelines.
UB Saha also instructed the authorities concerned to ensure health facilities as well as other basic amenities.
He warned that legal action would be initiated if his suggestions are found neglected when he next visits the Centre.
The MHRC team also visited Manipur Central Jail, Imphal and interacted with the inmates.
Around 100 prisoners were found inside the jail including 12 undertrial foreign prisoners and 37 foreigners who have completed their conviction periods.