Memo seeking protection and humanitarian aid for Myanmar refugees

27th May 2021

Citizens Committee, Manipur (CCM) has submitted a memorandum to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to "treat fleeing Myanmar citizens humanely in the spirit of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam (the world is but one family)" . In its letter, the CCM said, no humanitarian aid has been extended to the Myanmar people stranded in the border areas. On the other hand, they are being turned away from the border by the Assam Rifles following Home Ministry's order.

In addition, the plight of these people is further compounded by the raging COVID-19 pandemic. As they are hiding from the authorities of both Myanmar and India, they are neither tested for Covid nor vaccinated against the disease. CCM has been informed of Covid related deaths among the Myanmar citizens.

If they are kept unattended, the virus may spread to the local population and add to the already catastrophe situation in the country, it added. Urging the Government of India to take its own Constitutional and human rights obligations more seriously, CCM said in the event of any constraints from the side of the Government due to the ongoing pandemic or otherwise, specialised humanitarian agencies including the UNHCR may be given unhindered access to provide their humanitarian services.

The memorandum was signed by
CCM chairman - Radhabinod Koijam;
HSC (Humanitarian Sub-Committee) chairman - Amar Yuman and
CCM convenor - Babloo Loitongbam.