Home Ministry New Directive: Limited International Tourists Allowed in Indian States Like...

According to the Manipur government, MHA has informed the Manipur, Nagaland, and Mizoram that the Protected Area Regime has been reinstated in the region, limiting the lawful entry of foreigners into these states.

The limits have been reinstated "in light of mounting security concerns arising from influx from neighboring countries," as per a statement released by the state government late on Wednesday.

Limited International Visitors Allowed in…

The state government added that international visitors to Manipur will be subject to strict monitoring and must get the relevant Protected Area Permit (PAP) in compliance with the Foreigners (Protected Areas) Order, 1958.

In India, especially in the northeast region of the country, foreigners are required to obtain a PAP in order to enter designated regions under the Foreigners (Protected regions) Order, 1958. In an effort to boost tourism in the area, the Center removed the PAP requirement for foreigners visiting in Manipur, Nagaland, and Mizoram in 2010—with the exception of individuals from China, Pakistan, and Afghanistan. Periodically, this order was extended. The last extension was granted on December 16, 2022, and it was valid till December 2027.

Home Ministry Issues the Directive

The chief secretaries of Manipur, Mizoram, and Nagaland were informed by MHA on Tuesday about the updated PAR requirements.

Warning to Manipur CM Biren Singh

According to the state government's statement, it has also taken note of the warning from an organization that advised Chief Minister N Biren Singh not to go by road from Kangpokpi district to Senapati district on Wednesday in order to attend a cultural event.

The statement released further clarified that "Upon investigation, it has been ascertained that no such organisation (Kuki Zo Council) exists in Manipur. The origin and authenticity of this group are highly questionable."

Manipur Police in Action

Police are conducting a thorough investigation into this incident, according to the statement, and a formal complaint will be filed to ascertain the actual purpose and nature of these deceptive actions.

The government also urged people "to exercise prudence and disregard statements or claims from organisations of dubious origins, which have been emerging recently with the apparent intention of creating confusion and unrest" .

It asked people to be alert and only rely on reliable sources of information. 

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