JFD warns of demographic risks if census conducted without proper identification in Manipur

Campaign for Just and Fair Delimitation (JFD) has cautioned that conducting the Census in Manipur without proper identification and verification of residents could lead to serious demographic distortions with long-term political and social consequences. The warning was issued by Convenor Jeetendra Ningomba during a public awareness meeting held at Wangoo Sabal Leishemba Shanglen under Kumbi Assembly Constituency today.
Addressing the gathering, Jeetendra Ningomba said that if the Census is conducted without clearly identifying residents, there is a risk that undocumented populations could influence electoral processes and distort democratic representation. He stated that the campaign is being carried out across the state to inform the public about the possible implications of such developments for Manipur.
The meeting was attended by representatives of local clubs, Meira Paibis, Village Level Functionaries, and residents from Ward 10 under Wangoo Terakhong Gram Panchayat, reflecting broad community participation.
Jeetendra Ningomba stated that prior to conducting the Census, it is essential to create widespread public awareness regarding the identification of residents living in the state. He said the Census, expected to begin nationwide from April this year after a gap of more than a decade, must be conducted strictly in accordance with established rules and procedures. He clarified that a Census is not merely an exercise to count population numbers but is directly linked to public welfare, development planning, and the equitable distribution of benefits.
He further observed that if the Census is conducted properly, the people of the state would be able to receive various benefits provided by the Government of India. However, under the present circumstances in Manipur, he warned that an improper Census could disproportionately affect indigenous communities, particularly the Meitei population. He also claimed that migrants from Myanmar belonging to the Kuki community could gain greater access to rights and benefits meant for Indian citizens if identification is not carried out rigorously.
Highlighting Manipur’s status as a border state, Jeetendra Ningomba said continued instability in Myanmar has led to sustained cross-border movement of people. He said that while local residents in Myanmar are facing hardship due to conflict and political turmoil, migrants who enter Manipur are able to access rights and facilities provided by the state. He added that if such migrants are not properly identified, they could be counted as Indian citizens in official records.
Speaking at the same meeting, Campaign for Just and Fair Delimitation Finance Secretary Sunil Karam stated that the current crisis in Manipur has its roots in long-standing illegal immigration issues that have been overlooked over the years. He said allowing individuals identified as illegal immigrants to be included in the Census would undermine the rights of genuine Indian citizens.
Sunil Karam stressed that before conducting the Census, the entire population of the state must be clearly identified, and public discussions should be held in all areas to build consensus and awareness. He also stated that the number of districts in a state and the delimitation of constituencies should be decided after carefully assessing ground realities.
Referring to the prevailing situation in Manipur, he said that several areas remain inaccessible due to ongoing tensions, natural vulnerabilities, and security concerns. He pointed out that in certain regions, free movement between districts is restricted, and even travel along national highways remains difficult for sections of the population. Conducting a Census under such conditions, he warned, could result in serious inaccuracies.
He further cautioned that if the Census is carried out hastily in the present situation, there is a risk that refugees and migrants could be included in population figures, leading to demographic manipulation. He asserted that refugees do not possess the legal right to be counted as citizens and reiterated the need for a lawful and transparent Census process. He called for the identification and separation of illegal migrants before undertaking the population enumeration exercise to ensure fairness and constitutional integrity.