Manipur team meets PM, seeks halt to fencing work

DIFFICULT DIVIDE: In this file photo, women carry drinking water from theMyanmar side cross the international border fence in Moreh, Manipurbordering Myanmar’s Tamu town. Photo: Ritu Raj Konwar

A delegation comprising 22 politicians from 13 parties, led by Manipur Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh, met Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on Tuesday night to demand protection of India’s territory along the Myanmar border.

Protests have erupted over the construction of a border fence along the Manipur-Myanmar border in the Moreh sector, since chunks of Indian territory will go to the neighbouring country after the work is completed.

Ms. Kim Gangte, State president of the TMC says at least 18 tribal villages along the border will be affected since the fence will pass through them. Choro Khunou in Ukhrul district will entirely go to Myanmar, she said.

The BJP and the Manipur People’s Party are boycotting the visit, however.

Mr. Singh told reporters that the delegates demanded suspension of the construction work till a final agreement is reached.