Manipur Tightens Border Security Amid Infiltration Concerns

Imphal- Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh announced heightened security measures along the state's eastern border with Myanmar and western and southern borders with Bangladesh on Thursday, citing concerns over illegal infiltration. Singh emphasized the state's vulnerability, particularly given its 204 km border with Assam, a state also grappling with infiltration issues from Bangladesh.

Singh warned that if Assam cannot identify illegal infiltrators from Bangladesh, these migrants could enter Manipur, highlighting the potential spillover effect. He further pointed to Assam's 263 km and Tripura's 856 km borders with Bangladesh, noting that while sebagian besar of these borders are fenced, some sections remain unfenced.

To combat this potential threat, Singh urged vigilance not only from security forces but also from the general public, particularly indigenous communities. The Chief Minister encouraged the indigenous people to report any suspected illegal crossings and stressed the importance of being alert to suspicious activity.

In addition to physical security measures, the Chief Minister issued a strong warning against the spread of misinformation and hate speech on social media, particularly regarding the infiltration issue. He asserted that the government would take strict legal action against those found responsible for spreading such content, emphasizing that "no one has the right to disturb society, individuals and any family by spreading hate speeches, false and fictitious information through the social media."

Singh, who holds the Home portfolio, also highlighted the government's ongoing "war against drugs" campaign. He stated that Manipur Police, along with paramilitary and other security forces, have been actively destroying illegal poppy cultivation, primarily in the hilly areas.