Rajya Sabha MP Adhikarimayum Sharda has expressed confidence in Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s assurance on the implementation of the National Register of Citizens (NRC) in Manipur, saying the demand has been pursued by the state for several years.
Speaking at a press briefing at Thambal Sanglen, Sharda said the issue was taken up during the tenure of former Chief Minister N. Biren Singh, with the state Cabinet and Legislative Assembly initiating steps towards seeking an NRC.
She pointed out that the Manipur Legislative Assembly passed a resolution seeking implementation of the NRC in 2022, followed by another resolution reiterating the demand in 2024.
“The demand for NRC did not begin recently. Let us have faith in the assurance given by the Union Home Minister,” Sharda said, adding that the assurance should now be translated into a concrete process.
She said the demand for completing the NRC before the Census was aimed at ensuring that the population exercise was based on verified and credible records. She also referred to the Centre’s decision to defer the Census exercise in Manipur.
On tourism, Sharda said Manipur has significant potential for economic growth through tourism, provided connectivity and infrastructure are improved.
She said hosting major national and international events could help showcase the state’s cultural heritage, natural beauty and tourism potential. Better connectivity and infrastructure, she added, could attract more visitors, create opportunities for local communities and contribute to the state’s economy.
