Manipur: CSOs Kangleipak urges all-party meet on census amid conflicting govt statements

A joint body of civil society groups, CSOs Kangleipak, has called on the Manipur government to convene an all-party meeting to discuss the upcoming and contentious Census exercise in the state, amid growing public concern and protests.

Addressing a press conference, the convenor of the body, Shanta Nahakpam, said conflicting statements from BJP spokesperson Tongbram Robindro and Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh have created confusion among the public. He stressed that a joint meeting involving both ruling and opposition parties is necessary to clarify positions and build consensus on the issue.

Nahakpam noted that while the BJP spokesperson had advocated for a Special Intensive Revision (SIR) and updating of the NRC before conducting the Census, the Chief Minister has assured that the exercise would be carried out in a fair and transparent manner. The divergence in statements, he said, has raised doubts and uncertainty among citizens.

The organisation also questioned the government’s decision to hastily appoint enumerators in the Henglep constituency of Churachandpur district. Raising concerns over the move, Nahakpam alleged political motivations and sought clarity on the urgency behind the decision.

Further, he flagged concerns regarding illegal immigration, recalling that the Centre had earlier advised the state to remain vigilant amid instability in neighbouring Myanmar. He questioned the status of detected illegal immigrants and whether adequate steps have been taken to address the issue.

Drawing comparisons, Nahakpam pointed out that while illegal immigration remains a major political issue in Assam, similar urgency is not visible in Manipur. He urged authorities to adopt a transparent and inclusive approach to the Census process to ensure public trust and stability.