It is important to identify Rohingyas and send them back

AFTER FOUR AND a half years of trials and tribulations, N. Biren Singh seems to have emerged confident and assertive. The Manipur chief minister, who has been leading a coalition government, wants a majority for the BJP on its own in the next elections, and he is confident that the people of Manipur would grant his wish.

- NAMRATA BIJI AHUJA

He said the Inner Line Permit, brought in by the BJP in four northeast states to safeguard the rights of the indigenous people, had allayed the concerns over the implementation of the Citizenship Amendment Act.

However, Singh faces many challenges. There is trouble on the international border with Myanmar, where there is an influx of refugees. Currently, there are around 6,000 refugees, many of them Rohingyas, in the state. Singh has asked the Centre to stop the Free Movement Regime on the India-Myanmar border. “We have to do a door-to-door survey to identify Rohingyas and send them back,” he said. Excerpts from an exclusive interview:

Q/ The BJP-led coalition government in Manipur faced a lot of troubles. What are the plans ahead of the 2022 assembly elections?

A/ When we formed the government in 2017, our numbers were less [than required]. The coalition government was formed and we managed somehow. It is natural to have some tussles in a coalition but we overcame them in the last four and a half years. In the coming elections, it depends on the wisdom of the central leaders. But, as far as the present situation is concerned, I believe the BJP can fight alone. A decision will be taken by the central leadership.

Q/ How many seats do you expect for the BJP?

A/ Out of 60 assembly seats, though I cannot pinpoint an exact number, 40 or 45. But I am sure the BJP will get an absolute majority.

Q/ Six MLAs have been disqualified under the anti-defection law.