Entered India Illegally: Manipur Deporting Myanmar Nationals in Phases

Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh stated the government is deporting Myanmar nationals in phases due to the large number seeking refuge.  This follows a surge in civilians fleeing ethnic violence in Myanmar.

However the government has given specific numbers in connection with the deportation of illegal entrants.

The deportation comes after India ended a visa-free border agreement and began constructing a fence along the shared border. The Kuki-Zo tribes in Manipur share ethnic ties with Myanmar’s Chin people, and many refugees have familial connections in India.

Clashes between Myanmar’s military and rebel groups have driven civilians towards the Indian border since November. Manipur is also grappling with its own internal conflict between the Kuki-Zo tribes and the Meitei people.