The Manipur state government of India plans to issue temporary ID cards to refugees from Myanmar and set up a refugee camp, according to the Burma Refugee Committee Kabaw Valley (BRCK).
The Manipur government decided to issue temporary ID cards to refugees from Myanmar after a meeting with BRCK representatives on 26 March, said U Thang Seia, president of BRCK.
“It was very sad that we had to flee again as refugees and live in hiding. But it is a great relief for the refugees from Myanmar to have come to this situation. We are grateful to all those who have contributed to this,” said U Thang Seia.
The Manipur government will provide two million rupees to build a refugee camp near the India-Myanmar border and provide the refugees with water, food, health, education and security.
Myanmar nationals who reside in the designated refugee camp and hold a temporary card can move freely within the state without restrictions. However, those who choose to live outside the camp as tenants despite holding a temporary card will be arrested and prosecuted.
In addition, U Let Pao Haokip, the chairman of the committee dealing with the problems in Myanmar, has stated that people arrested under the Foreigners Act in Manipur State will be released once the construction of the camp is completed and they will be granted temporary residency.
The Manipur state government has frequently arrested and detained refugees from Myanmar. Currently, more than 170 Myanmar nationals are in custody for illegal entry and are being held in Imphal City Jail.
Sent by KMG.