The Campaign for Just and Fair Delimitation has called on all Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs) to move and adopt a resolution in the upcoming Manipur Legislative Assembly session, expected on February 6, seeking a deferment of the census exercise in the state.
The campaign warned that failure to adopt such a resolution could lead to serious long-term consequences. It argued that conducting the census under the present circumstances would adversely affect the interests of the indigenous population.
The demand was reiterated during a public meeting jointly organised by the Campaign for Just and Fair Delimitation and the Sandha Leima Women’s Association, Kokchai, at the Kokchai Community Hall. Addressing the gathering, campaign convenor Jeetendra Ningomba said that the census is a sensitive process meant to determine the actual population and must be conducted strictly in accordance with established norms.
He alleged that unregulated immigration from neighbouring countries such as Bangladesh, Nepal, and Myanmar has significantly altered demographic patterns in several areas. Ningomba also pointed to a sharp rise in the number of villages in certain hill districts over the years, claiming that this trend raises serious concerns.
The campaign further stated that unless issues related to illegal immigration are addressed — including measures such as updating the National Register of Citizens (NRC) — it would be inappropriate to carry out the census. It noted that census operations have been deferred in other states and regions under special circumstances and maintained that Manipur deserves similar consideration.
