The Campaign for Just & Fair Delimitation (JFD) in collaboration with the Pourabi Development Committee (PDC) jointly organised a public convention today, raising critical concerns over the ongoing delimitation process and the timing of the proposed Census in conflict-affected areas of Manipur.
During the event, the expert team of JFD presented key observations highlighting the potential discrepancies that may arise if the Census is conducted under the current disturbed conditions. Speaking at the convention, Longjam Ratan (JFD), Sunil Karam (JFD), and K. Maharabi addressed the gathering, underlining that any headcount conducted amidst ongoing displacement and instability could lead to inaccurate and unfair representation.
JFD Convenor Jeetendra Ningomba stressed that the present situation in Manipur is far from normal and does not allow for a fully fair and transparent administrative exercise. He argued that the widespread displacement of people, disruption of law and order, and prevailing conflict have created an unsuitable environment for conducting the Census. He further cautioned that if the exercise goes ahead under current conditions, the resulting data could misrepresent the actual ground realities and potentially lead to further marginalisation of already affected communities.
Citing Section 3 of the Census Act, 1948, the JFD urged authorities to consider a postponement, arguing that the law allows flexibility in scheduling the Census based on prevailing conditions.