A substantial protest took place at Babu Keithel, where a large group demanded the implementation of the National Register of Citizens (NRC) before any new census activities in the state of Manipur. Organized by the Meitei Community Joint Coordinating Committee (MCJCC), which includes representatives from Waithou, Kiyam, Kiyam Siphai, Haokha, and Thoubal Khunou, the demonstrators gathered at the market area to voice their strong opposition to the proposed census.
Speaking at the event, the Women’s Wing Secretary Pebam Indirani condemned the government’s efforts to proceed with a census without first addressing the issue of illegal immigration, which has been recognized even by Union Home Minister Amit Shah. Indirani argued that since the last census in 2011, there has been a conspicuous and inexplicable increase in the population of Manipur. She raised concerns regarding demographic imbalances, emphasizing that while population growth in valley regions was approximately 18 percent, hill areas experienced an increase of around 60 percent. This discrepancy, especially in light of existing ethnic tensions and the displacement of families over the past three years, raises questions about the feasibility of conducting a fair and accurate census.
The protesters asserted that the NRC must be enacted prior to any census and insisted that illegal immigrants should be identified and removed from the population records. Furthermore, they called for the rehabilitation of internally displaced persons (IDPs) in their original residences and sought assurances for unrestricted movement along National Highways.
Demonstrators showcased their demands on placards with slogans including “Census After NRC,” “Identify Illegal Immigrants,” “Rehabilitate IDPs,” and “Ensure Free Movement on National Highways,” which encapsulated the core issues raised during the protest.
