The Campaign for Just & Fair Delimitation (JFD) today reiterated its demand for updating the National Register of Citizens (NRC) before conducting the Census in Manipur, asserting that the issue of illegal immigration has become one of the most pressing challenges facing the state.
The demand was raised during a public meeting on the theme “Updating NRC Before Census” held at Haoreibi Kangjeibung Community Hall. The programme was jointly organized by JFD, Haoreibi Apunba Meira Paibi and Haoreibi Apunba Lup.
Addressing the gathering, JFD Finance Secretary Sunil Karam alleged that the state government had failed to take effective measures to identify and deport illegal immigrants who had entered the state from neighbouring countries and settled in various parts of Manipur. He maintained that protecting the indigenous population and safeguarding the interests of future generations required immediate action on the issue.
Sunil Karam claimed that despite repeated appeals from civil society organisations and concerned citizens, the government had not responded adequately to demands for the identification and deportation of illegal immigrants. He urged the state’s political leadership to take up the matter more seriously with the Centre.
He further stated that conducting the Census before addressing concerns related to illegal immigration could adversely affect the demographic profile of the state. Calling for an updated NRC prior to the Census exercise, he argued that the government should first ensure the identification of illegal immigrants before proceeding with population enumeration.
The JFD leader also questioned the government’s decision to push ahead with Census-related preparations amid continuing public concerns over demographic changes and migration issues. He said the Census should be conducted only after measures are taken to address these concerns.
During his address, Sunil Karam also expressed concern over the prevailing political situation in the state and called upon the public to remain vigilant in protecting the interests of future generations.
Appealing for wider public participation, he urged citizens to extend support to JFD’s campaign for updating the NRC and ensuring what he described as a fair and transparent process before the Census is undertaken in Manipur.
