COPMeV opposes census, delimitation amid ongoing crisis in Manipur

The Committee on Protection of Meetei Victims (COPMeV), Moreh, has strongly opposed the steps taken by the State and Central governments to conduct the Census and delimitation exercise amid the ongoing crisis in Manipur.
In a press release, COPMeV convenor Th. Budha Meitei stated that a proper and accurate database of the state’s population must be established before undertaking such exercises. The committee stressed that the implementation of the National Register of Citizens (NRC) is essential before conducting the Census and delimitation.
The committee alleged that reports of illegal migrants entering Manipur from neighbouring countries are widely known among the public. It further claimed that irregularities in previous census data, particularly in 2001, resulted in abnormal population growth in the hill areas.
Expressing concern, COPMeV said such developments have adversely affected the socio-economic structure and demographic balance of the state. It also highlighted environmental issues, alleging that illegal immigration has contributed to deforestation, new settlements, and poppy cultivation.
The organisation further pointed out that many families have been displaced due to the ongoing crisis and are currently residing in relief camps. It questioned how internally displaced persons would be included in the Census.
COPMeV urged authorities to implement the NRC first and cautioned against proceeding with what it termed an unjust delimitation process.