The Committee of Civil Societies Kangleipak (CCSK) has attributed the continuing unrest in Manipur to what it described as unchecked influx and successive governments’ failure to address the state’s demographic and security concerns, while calling for urgent measures to safeguard the future of the state.
In a statement issued by its Secretary, Publicity, N. Govind Meitei, the CCSK said the prolonged instability in neighbouring Myanmar had contributed to the entry of people into Manipur and alleged that the resulting demographic changes had become a major public concern.
The organisation pointed to what it described as an abnormal rise in the state’s population and number of households over the past decades, saying the trend warranted closer scrutiny. It alleged that successive governments had failed to respond adequately to the long-term implications of the changes.
The CCSK also criticised the present government for what it described as excessive dependence on the Centre and an inability to effectively convince the central leadership on issues concerning Manipur. It warned that continued political and demographic changes could undermine the interests of the state’s younger generations.
Taking aim at civil society organisations and people’s groups as well, the CCSK said repeated declarations on protecting the state’s interests must be translated into concrete action rather than remaining rhetoric.
The organisation renewed its demand for updation of the National Register of Citizens (NRC) before the Census and said the demand should be treated as a substantive issue rather than a slogan. It expressed concern over the ongoing Census process and house-to-house enumeration, arguing that demographic verification should precede the exercise.
The CCSK called for stronger public mobilisation and collective action to address the influx issue and protect Manipur’s demographic and territorial interests.
It further alleged that recurring conflicts among communities were being exploited by forces acting as “proxies” for the Government of India to weaken the state. Without naming specific groups, the organisation urged all communities to reject divisions and remain united in safeguarding Manipur’s future.
“People may be tolerant, but they cannot remain silent when the future of their children is at stake,” the CCSK said, urging all sections of society to stand together with determination and work towards securing a peaceful and stable future for the coming generations.