Concern in Mizoram over security issues from Myanmar refugees

The District level committee on Myanmar refugees in Champhai district has decided to take certain key steps in dealing with the refugees from Myanmar

For the first time after months, there is a growing concern over possible security issues created by the influx of refugees from Myanmar.

Champhai, the district which shelters the maximum number of Myanmar refugees, is now gearing up to tackle any anomalies that may arise from the situation.

The District level committee on Myanmar refugees in Champhai district has decided to take certain key steps in dealing with the refugees from Myanmar taking shelter in the district, to avoid any compromise with the security of the state and the nation.

During a meeting of the committee, chaired by Chairman and Champhai DC James Lalrinchhana, issues pertaining to relief and assistance being provided by the NGOs and the international aid agencies as well as security matters being undertaken by the state police and the Assam Rifles guarding the 404-km-long Mizoram-Myanmar international border were discussed.

The meeting also discussed the illegal and legal running of businesses by the refugees and delved into ways and means to prevent the issuance of aadhar cards, birth certificates, and voters’ identity cards to the refugees.

The possible sale and disposal of land by the local people to the refugees were also discussed at length.

Restriction on movements of the refugees without the knowledge and permission of the authorities was also deliberated and it was decided that the village-level committee on Myanmar refugees should be strengthened and tasked to oversee the movements of the refugees.

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