Will take steps to check illegal immigration, Sonia promises Mizoram

The central government was aware of illegal immigration in Mizoram and would take measures to check it, Congress President Sonia Gandhi said on Monday.

Addressing an election rally in Lunglei town, the United Progressive Alliance chairperson said that appropriate action would be taken to address the problem of illegal influx of foreigners through the international borders.

Gandhi, who went to Lunglei, 200 km away from Aizawl by helicopter from the Lengpui Airport, also said that efforts would be made to solve the boundary issues with neighbouring countries and states.

Gandhi said after exploration and production of hydrocarbon deposits in the state, more employment would be generated for youths. Profits from the sale of hydrocarbon would be shared equally by the Centre and the state, she said.

She said that the ongoing Kaladan, Tuirial and Tuivai hydro-electricity projects and the Kaladan Multi-Modal Transport Project would be completed soon creating more jobs for youths.

Appealing to young voters, Gandhi said that better sports infrastructure and women hostels would be set up in all district headquarters to help students and working women.

Speaking on the Food Security Act, she said it would not only minimise malnutrition, but also ensure that poor people both in the rural and urban areas could avail food at a cheaper and affordable price. Stating that the Centre was aware of the high prevalence of cancer in Mizoram, she said, a 100-bed cancer hospital equipped with state-of-the-art equipment for diagnostic and treatment would be set up.

Gandhi was accompanied by Chief Minister Lal Thanhawla, All India Congress Committee leaders Ambika Soni and Luizinho Faleiro and three party candidates from Lunglei district. The Congress president returned to Delhi after the election rally.