Imphal
In response to the intervention of Justice (Retd) Utpalendu Bikas Saha, Chairperson of the Manipur Human Rights Commission (MHRC), the Manipur government has taken steps to improve medical care at the Foreigners Detention Centre in Sajiwa, Imphal, where 136 foreigners, primarily Myanmarese nationals, including 24 women and 6 minors, are currently lodged. Following a recent visit by MHRC Chairperson Justice Saha, the Superintendent of Manipur Central Jail, Sajiwa, has requested the Director of Manipur Health Services to depute specialist medical staff and other health workers to the Foreigners Detention Centre, Sajiwa. The request includes the deputation of two medical officers, one gynecologist, two male and two female nurses, a pharmacist, and a medical attendant to the detention centre. Presently, two lady medical officers and one lady staff nurse are posted at the centre, but the additional medical officers and specialists are deemed necessary for the smooth round-the-clock management of the centre, especially to cater to the healthcare needs of the inmates. The Foreigners Detention Centre, Sajiwa, was established on February 16, 2023, and has become home to 136 foreigners, primarily Myanmarese nationals, including 24 women and 6 minors. Among the women detainees, two are pregnant. The Manipur government, under the advice of the Union Home Ministry, initiated the collection of biometric data from illegal Myanmar immigrants in the state in July. This process is expected to be completed by the end of September. A team of officials from the National Crime Records Bureau, deputed by the Ministry of Home Affairs, has been assisting the state government in collecting biometrics from illegal immigrants, a procedure being carried out at the Foreigners’ Detention Centre in Sajiwa and various districts of Manipur. This effort aims to establish a comprehensive database of illegal Myanmar immigrants in the state in compliance with government regulations.
