Illegal Immigration Poses Grave Threat to Manipur’s Identity and Stability, Warns Former CM Biren Singh

Illegal Immigration Endangering Manipur’s Identity, Says Former CM

Former Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh has issued a stern warning about the escalating issue of illegal immigration in Manipur, calling it a direct threat to the identity and stability of the state. In a comprehensive letter to Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla, Singh highlighted the wide-ranging impacts of illegal immigration—from demographic shifts and ethnic unrest to environmental degradation and security risks.

Over 5,000 Illegal Immigrants Identified

According to Singh, a total of 5,457 illegal immigrants have been identified in Manipur. The former CM emphasized that illegal immigration is no longer a mere political issue but a serious existential threat to the indigenous communities of the region. He raised concerns over the unregulated influx of foreign nationals affecting public services, contributing to forest encroachment, and fueling ethnic tensions.

Verification Drives and Policy Action Under BJP Rule

Singh detailed that during his tenure (2017–2023), the BJP-led state government undertook extensive verification drives to identify undocumented immigrants and dismantle illegal settlements. The efforts, led by a cabinet sub-committee comprising Letpao Haokip, Awangbou Newmai, and Th Basantakumar, represented the Kuki, Naga, and Meitei communities respectively.

Special operations in border areas like Singhat and Holenphai in the Churachandpur district revealed hidden settlements populated by undocumented migrants. Singh referred to communications from Assam Rifles confirming the entry of 718 Myanmarese nationals into Manipur on July 23, 2023, and a report from the Churachandpur Superintendent of Police linking 11 Myanmarese nationals to recent violent incidents.

Ethnic Ties and Porous Borders Fuel Crisis

Singh pointed out that the illegal immigration problem is intensified by the ethnic and geographical proximity between Myanmar’s Chin-Kuki population and related communities already living in Manipur. The 398-km porous border with Myanmar has allowed continuous migration, particularly during periods of political instability in the neighboring country.

He warned that this migration has led to the unchecked spread of settlements in tribal and reserved forest areas, threatening environmental stability and sparking inter-community tensions.

Link to Drug Cartels and Armed Groups

The former CM alleged that many illegal immigrants are supported by cross-border poppy and drug syndicates. This association not only compromises internal security but also overstretches vital public resources such as healthcare, housing, and education.

Between 2017 and 2023, the state government eradicated over 15,715 acres of poppy plantations, dealing a financial blow estimated at ₹12,480 crore to illegal cultivators. The total estimated value of illegal drugs seized during the BJP’s rule amounts to ₹9,300 crore, signaling the magnitude of the crisis.

Retaliation from Myanmar-Based Armed Groups

Singh noted that intensified crackdowns have led to backlash from Myanmar-based armed groups. These organizations, according to Singh, are retaliating through orchestrated riots and acts of unrest aimed at destabilizing the state and halting the anti-narcotics campaign.

“Manipur stands at the frontline of India’s battle against illegal immigration, drug trafficking, and arms proliferation,” Singh stated, underlining the strategic significance of the state in national security.

Support for Central Government Directive

Singh endorsed the Union Home Ministry’s recent order mandating the identification of illegal immigrants within 30 days. He stressed that this issue transcends party politics and impacts the very survival of Manipur’s native population.

“This is not just about governance or administration—it’s about preserving the very essence of who we are,” Singh wrote. “Illegal immigration is a threat to the identity, stability, and future of Manipur.”