1. The MSU cautioned Manipur CM over his remarks made on February 13 regarding the deportation of the Zo Ethnic group entering Manipur after 1961.
2. Warning of reciprocal action, the MSU stated they would take steps against Meiteis living in Mizoram if Singh pursued his deportation plan.
3. Singh’s proposal raised concerns about its feasibility, with experts questioning the process of deportation without recognition from foreign countries concerned.
Imphal, Feb 20: The Mizo Students’ Union (MSU) issued a warning to Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh regarding his statement on February 13, where he purportedly discussed deporting the Zo Ethnic group who entered Manipur after 1961.
The MSU threatened reciprocal action against Meiteis residing in Mizoram if Singh proceeded with his plan.
During an emergency meeting on February 19, the MSU headquarters expressed their concerns over Singh’s statement, stating that they possess the names, employment details, and addresses of all Meiteis in Mizoram.
Singh’s proposal to identify and deport individuals who entered Manipur after 1961 has raised doubts about its feasibility.
Experts argue that while identifying illegal immigrants is a positive step, deporting them would be challenging without recognition from their respective countries of origin.
Ethnic tensions have plagued Manipur since May last year, with the government accusing some immigrants from neighbouring Myanmar of inciting unrest.
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Singh reiterated his stance during the launch of ‘Project Buniyaad,’ emphasizing the need to identify and deport those who settled in the state after 1961, regardless of their caste or community.
The Manipur cabinet previously approved a proposal in June 2022 to adopt 1961 as the base year for determining the “native status” of state residents for the effective implementation of the inner line permit.
Political analyst Pradip Phanjoubam questioned the feasibility of deportation, highlighting the necessity for foreign countries to recognize immigrants as their citizens before deportation can occur.
