The Union Ministry of Home Affairs has reinstated the Protected Area Permit (PAP) in Manipur, citing security concerns stemming from cross-border influx, a statement issued by the state government late on Wednesday maintained.
The directive requires foreigners intending to visit Manipur to secure the necessary PAP under the Foreigners (Protected Areas) Order, 1958.
The regulation has also been reimposed in Nagaland and Mizoram.
“With this reimposition, the movement of foreigners visiting Manipur will be closely monitored,” the statement read, underlining the Centre’s intention to safeguard the region from external threats.
Separately, the state government addressed a purported warning issued by an unverified organisation, the "Kuki-Zo Council," which allegedly cautioned Chief Minister N. Biren Singh against travelling to Senapati district via Kangpokpi.
“Upon investigation, it has been found that no such organisation (Kuki-Zo Council) exists in Manipur. The origin and authenticity of this group are highly questionable,” the statement noted.
The authorities confirmed that police have been tasked with verifying the source of these claims, and an FIR will be filed to uncover the intent behind such “misleading activities.”
The government also highlighted the group’s reference to “Lamka” as its headquarters, pointing out that no such district exists in Manipur’s administrative framework.
Advising caution, the government urged citizens to ignore dubious statements or claims aimed at creating unrest.
It reiterated its commitment to maintaining peace and harmony in the state, calling on the public to trust only credible sources of information.