Naga Indigenous Bodies Sound Alarm Over “Unchecked” Myanmar Migration, Demand PM Intervention in Manipur

Four major indigenous Naga organisations have submitted an urgent memorandum to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, warning that large-scale illegal migration from Myanmar and other Indian states is “severely threatening” the demographic balance, cultural identity and traditional land rights of native communities in Manipur.

The joint appeal was submitted by the Rongmei Naga Council, Liangmai Naga Council, Zeme Naga Council and Inpui Naga Union — bodies representing Naga sub-tribes primarily residing in Tamenglong, Noney and Kangpokpi districts.

The memorandum highlights that war-displaced migrants from Myanmar, along with people fleeing NRC processes in neighbouring states, have triggered “alarming and unchecked” influx into the state. It accuses the new settlers of surviving through illegal taxation on national highways, large-scale poppy cultivation on indigenous Naga lands, and widespread deforestation under the protection of armed militant groups.

Without directly naming the Kuki-Zo community, the Naga groups allege that these settlers are now claiming ancestral Naga territory, building unauthorised roads through Naga villages, renaming routes after militant leaders, and erecting illegal check gates that restrict local movement while demanding a separate administration.

Citing official data, the memorandum points out stark demographic shifts: the Kuki population in Manipur rose from 79,919 in 1951 to 4,48,214 in 2011 — a staggering 460.7% increase over six decades — while Kuki legislators in the 60-member Manipur Assembly jumped from just one (1952–57) to ten in 2025. Over the same period, Naga MLAs rose from seven to ten.

Describing the situation as “critical and explosive,” the indigenous bodies have urged the Prime Minister to immediately halt the influx, dismantle illegal settlements and taxation rackets, and protect the rights and resources of Manipur’s original inhabitants before the crisis spirals further out of control.

Also Read: Putin’s India Visit Revives Curiosity About His Extreme Security Rituals: From Poison-Tasters to the Famous “Poop Suitcase”