A delegation of 14 Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) of Kangleipak (Manipur) today met Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla at Raj Bhavan and urged him to support the implementation of the National Register of Citizens (NRC) in the state before the proposed Census 2027, arguing that the exercise is essential to safeguard the interests of Manipur’s indigenous population.
The delegation, led by its convenor Shanta Nahakpam, submitted a memorandum and supporting documents to the Governor, outlining the organisations’ demand for updating the NRC prior to the Census. The meeting forms part of a broader campaign launched by the CSOs following a recent public rally and convention, which adopted resolutions calling for the implementation of the NRC in Manipur.
Addressing reporters after the meeting, Shanta Nahakpam said the organisations have been pursuing the issue at various levels by engaging with both the state and central governments. He said the delegation had earlier met the Chief Minister and the Union Minister of State for Home Affairs before approaching the Governor.
According to Shanta Nahakpam, the delegation highlighted concerns over demographic changes in the state and stressed that the identification of illegal immigrants should precede the Census exercise. He maintained that updating the NRC before Census 2027 is necessary to ensure the accuracy of population data and to protect the constitutional and indigenous rights of the people of Manipur.
The delegation also urged the Governor to support the revival of the State Population Commission and sought Manipur’s representation in the High-Level Committee on Demographic Change recently constituted by the Government of India. It further appealed that constitutional rights and benefits should not be extended to individuals residing illegally in the state.
Shanta Nahakpam said the Governor listened to the concerns raised by the delegation and acknowledged the importance of the Census. According to him, the Governor assured the delegation that he would extend support in facilitating meetings with the appropriate authorities at the Centre.
The organisations announced that a delegation will leave for New Delhi on July 5 to pursue the matter with the Union Home Secretary, the Registrar General of India and the Chairperson of the High-Level Committee on Demographic Change. The objective of the visit, is to press for the implementation of the NRC before the commencement of the Census process, Shanta Nahakpam said.
Appealing for wider public participation, the CSOs invited citizens to submit relevant information, documents and suggestions related to the NRC issue at the offices of IPSA and IPAK before the delegation’s departure, stating that public inputs would strengthen their representation before the central authorities.
