Burma Refugees Committee Urges Manipur Government to Halt Deportation

The Burma Refugees Committee – Kabaw Valley has appealed to the Manipur government to cease the deportation of Myanmar refugees, citing concerns over their safety upon return. Highlighting the imposition of Myanmar’s “conscription law” by the military junta, the organization expressed fears that deportees could be forced into military service and used as human shields in ongoing conflicts.

Emphasizing socio-political and humanitarian considerations, the committee urged for a reconsideration of the deportation plan, advocating for the refugees’ right to choose between a temporary stay in Manipur or facing potential conscription upon returning to Myanmar. The plea comes amid heightened tensions following Myanmar’s military coup in February 2021, with refugees facing uncertain fates amidst the ongoing conflict.