Why did Myanmarese Nationals in Manipur Jail Go on Hunger Strike?

Around 100 Myanmar nationals lodged at detention centres inside Sajiwa Central Jail in Manipur’s Imphal have initiated a hunger strike demanding their immediate release.

As per reports, among the detainees, 128 are Myanmar nationals, alongside two other foreign nationals.

Speaking to Northeast Live, Superintendent Sorokhaibam Bhadrika, who serves as SP Incharge of Sajiwa Central Jail said that medical officers conduct daily routine check-ups, ensuring no critical cases among the detainees, including those who participated in the hunger strike on June 17. Jail authorities are prepared to enforce force-feeding if detainees refuse food, adhering to jail regulations. As of now, no hunger strikes are ongoing.

Superintendent Bhadrika emphasized that the release or deportation of Myanmar nationals requires diplomatic processes between the Indian and Myanmar governments, a matter beyond the jail authorities’ control.

Among the 22 convicted foreigners in Imphal Jail, eight have completed their sentences and received release orders. However, due to the ongoing state situation and pending government clearances from both nations, they remain in detention.

Many Myanmar nationals have finished their sentences but continue to be held in detention centres across Sajiwa Central Jail and Imphal Central Jail campuses. Requests for deportation have been forwarded to the Manipur and Indian governments, awaiting responses.

Superintendent Bhadrika clarified that the Manipur Central Jail does not have the authority to release detainees as they were penalized under section 14 of the Foreigners Act. Only thorough clarification from the Myanmar Embassy can facilitate their deportation.

Addressing allegations of jail authorities taking bribes up to Rs. 50,000 from the detainees, Superintendent Bhadrika denied any records of such incidents, suggesting the amounts might have been for legal counsel fees.

He assured that detainees are being cared for according to rules, provided with food, uncontaminated water, and allowed to communicate with their families through video calls.