IMPHAL, Apr 3 : Taking cognizance of the report furnished by the United Committee Manipur that Myanmar army personnel had encroached upon Indian territory near BP 76 at Haolenphai village in Chandel district on March 4, the Home Joint Secretary has written to the Joint Secretary, Ministry of External Affairs, that the Government of Manipur has taken serious note of the report and urged the Ministry of External Affairs to take up the issue seriously to stop such encroachment and prevent such incidents in the future.
Alleging that the Assam Rifles is not effectively managing the ground situation, the State Government urged the Centre to enhance the presence of Indian security force at BP 76 and assure the safety and security of Haolenphai villagers.
Recounting the conduct of Myanmarese army on Indian soil, the State Government highlighted to the Centre that on March 4 at about 1 pm, the Myanmarese army came to the house of the village chief and destroyed the saw mill owned by the village chief and took away the machinery.
“It is also reported that the Myanmar army fired a few shots on the same day,” said the State Government.
Following this the Deputy Commissioner of Tengnoupal district sent a missive to the DC of Tamu on March 5, said the State Government and enclosed a copy of the protest note to the Centre. Over the last two years, the activities of the Myanmarese army near Haolenphai have been disturbing the normal life of the villagers, it added.
Additional Chief Secretary (Home), Dr J Suresh Babu has also written to the State DGP, LM Khaute highlighting the need for the State Police Department to be extra vigilant in the face of the reports that inflow of foreign Nationals into the State has been on the rise.
In a message sent to the DGP, the Additional Chief Secretary said that there is a need to revamp the strength of the present man power, security personnel and infrastructure at the foreigners check posts/immigration check posts set up at Jiribam, Mao, Behiang, Jessami, Moreh in particular and Imphal airport in general.
Stating that additional man power may be deployed at these check posts, the Addl Chief Secretary said there is the need to ensure proper screening of persons entering Manipur.
Instructions may also be issued to the State CID and all security agencies concerned to remain alert at all the check posts to ensure that no illegal foreigners are allowed to trespass the State from across the borders.
Source: The Sangai Express
