Civil society organisation Arambai Tenggol has welcomed President Droupadi Murmu’s maiden visit to Manipur, expressing optimism that her presence would bring a tangible solution to the unresolved hardships of the state’s Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs). In a statement, the activist group highlighted that IDPs in Manipur have “struggled silently” for years—attempting to rebuild their homes, revive livelihoods and instil a basic sense of security while still lacking full access to government-mandated benefits.
The group asserted that many displaced families remain deprived of essential support and that their living conditions were “below the dignity that every citizen of the great nation deserves.” Arambai Tenggol appealed to the President to ensure that all entitlements provided under central schemes reach the displaced families in a “fair, transparent and effective manner, free from bias or exploitation”. The civil society organisation further flagged issues relating to what it described as “unregulated cross-border movement,” reiterating its demand for implementation of the National Register of Citizens (NRC) in Manipur in line with constitutional provisions.
The statement cites a recent Supreme Court observation that “illegal immigrants or unauthorised foreign nationals do not enjoy the same legal rights as citizens,” and argues that accurate verification mechanisms are essential not only for demographic balance and social stability but also for national security. The group underscored the need to detect and prevent unlawful immigration from neighbouring countries, noting demographic concerns arising from porous borders with Myanmar and Bangladesh. “Proper verification and regulation were necessary to safeguard the interests of all indigenous communities in Manipur and restore public confidence,” it stated. “The President’s visit can mark a decisive turning point for the state after a prolonged period of unrest,” the group stated, while calling for sustained efforts to rebuild harmony and create conditions where all communities can once again coexist in mutual respect and tranquillity.