GUWAHATI : Member of Parliament Angomcha Bimol Akoijam has filed a Right to Information (RTI) application with the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), seeking official clarification on the existence, legal validity and statutory basis of any buffer zones in Manipur.

In his RTI petition, the MP has sought to ascertain whether any buffer zones have been formally declared in the state that restrict or regulate the free movement of Zo and Hmar communities vis-à-vis Meitei citizens, or vice versa. He has also requested copies of any official notifications, if such zones exist, that authorise or enforce these restrictions.

Akoijam has further asked the MHA to specify the exact legal provisions, statutory laws, executive orders or administrative directives under which such buffer zones may have been notified or implemented.

Stating that such measures carry serious implications for civil liberties, freedom of movement and social cohesion, the MP said the RTI was aimed at ensuring transparency and accountability from the concerned authorities.

The move comes amid continuing debates over administrative controls and security arrangements in Manipur, where buffer zones have been widely discussed in the context of maintaining law and order. Akoijam has emphasised the need for lawful governance and clear communication from the Centre on policies that affect the state’s diverse communities, particularly in a prolonged conflict situation.

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