"Manipur Police Initiates Survey to Identify Illegal Bangladeshi and Pakistani Nationals in the State"

Manipur police have initiated a comprehensive "survey and verification" operation aimed at identifying and addressing the presence of illegal Bangladeshi and Pakistani nationals residing in the state without proper documentation. This decision follows the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, which has heightened security concerns and spurred a more aggressive stance on illegal immigration. The operation is part of a broader effort to ensure that only documented residents, holding valid visas or Inner Line Permits (ILP), are living in Manipur, a state that has historically grappled with tensions over immigration issues.

The survey will primarily focus on certain areas in the Imphal Valley, namely Lilong, Minuthong, Kwakta, Mayang Imphal, Sora, and Kairang. These regions have been flagged in intelligence reports as locations where foreign nationals, specifically from Bangladesh and Pakistan, may be residing without the necessary documentation. The presence of unauthorized immigrants in these areas has raised concerns about the security and socio-political implications, given the sensitive nature of immigration issues in the northeastern region.

To ensure the operation is carried out effectively, senior police officials have issued directives to local police stations across the state to conduct thorough verifications of the residential status of individuals in the targeted areas. This includes checking whether residents possess the required legal documents, such as visas or ILPs, which are necessary for foreigners to stay in the state legally. Any individuals found to be residing without valid documentation will face legal action, as per the guidelines set by the authorities. This could involve detention, deportation, or other penalties depending on the severity of the situation.

The launch of this operation reflects a growing concern within the state government and law enforcement agencies about the presence of illegal immigrants, especially following a series of security incidents in the region. The recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, which brought national attention to the issue of foreign nationals in India, acted as a catalyst for more stringent security measures. It has underscored the risks posed by undocumented migrants and the potential for them to be involved in activities detrimental to national security.

The Manipur police’s operation is also seen as part of a larger, ongoing effort to manage the demographic and political challenges posed by immigration in the northeastern states of India. These states have been historically vulnerable to issues surrounding the illegal influx of migrants, particularly from neighboring Bangladesh, due to their proximity to international borders. Manipur, like other northeastern states, has long struggled with the challenges of balancing the rights of indigenous populations with the need for national security and territorial integrity.

Moreover, the operation aligns with the state's efforts to ensure compliance with the Inner Line Permit (ILP) system, which restricts the movement of non-locals in certain areas to protect the interests of indigenous communities. The ILP system requires people from outside the state to obtain a special permit before entering or residing in the protected areas of Manipur.

This initiative is also a response to growing concerns about the socio-economic and political impact of illegal immigration on local communities. With increasing pressure on resources, infrastructure, and employment opportunities, many local residents feel that the influx of undocumented migrants threatens their livelihood and cultural identity.

The Manipur police's move is expected to have broader implications for immigration policy in the northeastern region, as the state aims to tighten its security framework. However, it also brings to the forefront the need for a balanced approach to immigration that considers both national security concerns and the rights of those seeking refuge or work in the state.

Overall, the survey and verification operation represents a critical effort by the Manipur police to address the issue of illegal immigration, improve security, and safeguard the interests of local communities in a region that has long struggled with the challenges of migration and demographic change.