Manipur Government Prioritizes Identity Amid NRC and Census Discussions

As the debate intensifies over updating the National Register of Citizens (NRC) before the Census-2027, Manipur's Chief Minister Y. Khemchand Singh has reaffirmed the government's commitment to protecting the state's identity and interests. Amid growing pressure from civil society organizations, discussions are underway to address demographic changes and illegal immigration concerns. The government aims to clarify these issues and gather recommendations to shape future policies. With various groups threatening boycotts and shutdowns, the outcome of these consultations could significantly impact Manipur's demographic management strategies.

By Narendra Chaudhary Aug 7, 2026, 15:20 IST

Government's Commitment to Protecting Manipur's Identity

File image of protests against alleged preparations for the upcoming 2027 Census before NRC implementation in Manipur(Photo: AT)

Imphal, Aug 7: As calls grow louder for the National Register of Citizens (NRC) to be updated prior to the upcoming Census-2027, Chief Minister Y. Khemchand Singh emphasized that safeguarding the identity, land, culture, and interests of the people of Manipur is the government's top priority.

The Chief Minister's comments were made during the state's consultations regarding its demographic profile and the Census-2027, amidst ongoing discussions about illegal immigration and the need for NRC updates.

While addressing a meeting focused on demographic matters in Imphal, Singh expressed optimism that these discussions would yield recommendations aimed at protecting Manipur's demographic integrity, contributing to a secure and prosperous future for the state.

This consultation is particularly important as various civil society groups are pressuring the government to finalize the NRC before the Census takes place.

Many organizations argue that conducting the Census without first addressing the status of alleged illegal immigrants could irreversibly change Manipur's demographic landscape.

Joint Secretary (Home) M. Veto explained that the government has convened a diverse group of stakeholders, including academicians, legal experts, historians, and women's organizations, to discuss demographic challenges and outline a strategy for the upcoming Census-2027.

"There is significant confusion among the public regarding demographic shifts, illegal immigration, the Census, and the NRC. This consultation aims to clarify these issues and gather constructive feedback that can influence the direction of Census-2027," Veto stated.

Earlier this week, 24 civil society organizations, united under the Manipur People and Integrity (MAPI) Council, urged the state government to complete the NRC process before the Census. They also called on the Manipur Legislative Assembly to advocate for NRC updates to the central government prior to the enumeration.

In a show of escalating pressure, the Campaign for Just Fair Delimitation (JFD) has threatened to boycott the Census if the government does not adequately address concerns regarding the NRC and demographic protections.

Additionally, a coalition known as 14 CSOs Kangleipak has warned of a statewide shutdown starting at midnight on August 9 unless the government provides a clear plan for NRC implementation before the Census begins.

The organizations insist that the prerequisites for NRC implementation be established in collaboration with intellectuals and representatives from all communities.

The two-day consultation, organized by the Home Department and the Manipur State Population Commission, is set to discuss demographic trends, the upcoming Census-2027, the proposed NRC update, and other relevant policy matters.

Outcomes from these discussions are expected to influence the state government's future strategies regarding demographic management and Census preparedness.