Imphal/ August 1, 2023 (SPN) | The Manipur state unit of BJP has announced the successful completion of the evacuation process for Meiteis from Mizoram who sought refuge in two different relief camps in Assam after fleeing from Mizoram.
K Saratkumar, the general secretary of BJP Manipur, addressed the media at Thambal Shanglen on Monday and revealed that a total of 79 Meiteis from Mizoram, who were working and studying in Mizoram, had found shelter in Sonai and Lakhimpur, Assam.
They had to leave Mizoram due to an ultimatum from an ex-militant group in the state known as the Peace Accord MNF Returnees’ Association (PAMRA).
The Meiteis fled Mizoram on July 22 and 23, seeking safety elsewhere. Saratkumar stated that while the evacuation process has been successfully completed, a few Meiteis chose to stay back in Mizoram. However, those who were evacuated have all reached their destinations safely.
The displaced Manipuri Meiteis were brought back to Imphal from the relief camps in Assam within a span of two days, with the airlift taking place on July 30 and 31, organized via helicopters.
K Saratkumar expressed his gratitude to both the Assam Government and the Meiteis in Assam for providing shelter and support to the Meiteis who had to flee Mizoram.
During this challenging situation, the Meitei Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) in Assam played a significant role in welcoming and accommodating those who sought refuge in their state.
While some of the Meiteis managed to find their way to Manipur via flights, many were received by the Meetei CSOs of Assam and were accommodated in relief centers located in Cachar district.
Saratchandra also conveyed the sentiments of some of the Meiteis who had fled Mizoram, stating that the landlords treated them well.
However, they were compelled to leave due to the perceived threat from PAMRA and other student bodies. The Meiteis expressed their hope for a safer future and expressed their desire to return to Mizoram once the situation improves.
The successful evacuation of the Manipuri Meiteis highlights the importance of cooperation and support from various quarters during times of crisis.