Restrictions imposed on movement of Myanmar refugees in Manipur’s Kamjong

IMPHAL: The movement of Myanmar refugees who entered Kamjong district in Manipur, either directly or indirectly and faced threats to their life or freedom due to a well-founded fear of persecution or other reasons, has been curtailed.

Hungo Yurreikan, executive magistrate of Kamjong district in Manipur, issued an order stipulating that Myanmar refugees in Kamjong district must confine themselves strictly to refugee camps.

They are prohibited from engaging in any business or trade and are strictly forbidden from working as laborers/helpers or in any other capacity.

Any refugee found violating this notice/order will face prosecution under relevant laws and regulations.

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This order follows the completion of biometric registration of a total of 5066 Myanmar nationals taking refuge in various relief camps in Kamjong district of Manipur as of the end of February 2024.

Officials have reported that these refugees are housed in several relief camps across Kamjong district, including those in Namlee, Wanglee, Kenching, K Asang Khullen, Makan, Punamram, and Kangum villages within the Kasom Khullen sub-division of Kamjong district in Manipur.

It is worth noting that approximately 12,000 Myanmar nationals are currently seeking shelter in various relief camps across Manipur, particularly in the border districts of Kamjong, Ukhrul, Tengnoupal, Pherzawl, Chandel and Churachandpur.

These Manipur districts share borders with Myanmar.