Guwahati July 30, 2003: Burmese people living in the Indian north east border state of Mizoram are facing difficult times as a ground swell of anti-Burmese sentiment has become more strident among local communities. The Burmese immigrants, many of whom have fled persecution in their home country, are being blamed for their alleged involvement in criminal activities. Mizoram's community groups are calling for all Burmese to be deported.

The issue was even discussed in the Mizoram State Assembly yesterday as a Legislator expressed serious concern over the increasing incidents of drug trafficking and rape allegedly being perpetrated by a section of Burmese community. The member is demanding the immediate deportation of all Burmese people.

In response, the Mizoram Chief Minister, Zoramthanga, said that the law as it stands should be applied in the event of any Burmese nationals being deported. "We have to ensure that the local people do not take law into their hands" he said.

However, the main opposition Congress Party to the ruling Mizo National Front (MNF) has criticized the present government saying that it has inflamed the situation and is encouraging local people to drive out Burmese nationals.

Tension has been particularly high in the bordering areas of Mizoram following a recent case in which a female minor was allegedly raped by a Burmese national.

Mizoram is currently home to a an estimated population of 50,000 Burmese.