Imphal: The Government of Manipur today reiterated its stand that the National Register of Citizens (NRC) updation should be taken up in the State citing concerns over demographic changes, demographic imbalance and illegal migration.
Addressing a press conference held at the Auditorium of the Directorate of Information and Public Relations (DIPR), Nityaipat Chuthek, Imphal, Government spokesperson and MLA Dr. Sapam Ranjan Singh stated that the Government remains serious about the issues concerning the NRC and Census and stands with the people of Manipur in addressing their concerns.
Dr. Sapam Ranjan Singh said that the Manipur Legislative Assembly had passed a resolution on August 5, 2022, urging that the NRC be taken up in the State. The resolution was subsequently reaffirmed by the Assembly on March 1, 2024. He stated that the issue has remained a longstanding concern of the State Government and that efforts have been continuously pursued through correspondence with the Union Ministry of Home Affairs.
He also informed that a team of MLAs would visit New Delhi to seek guidance and urge the Central Government to take up the NRC updation. He stressed that the issue should be addressed collectively, irrespective of political party, community or other differences, as it concerns the future of the State and its people.
Dr. Sapam Ranjan Singh reiterated that the Government acknowledges the demand of civil society organizations and the people of Manipur that NRC should be conducted before the Census. He said the Government would continue to pursue the matter with the Central Government and make every effort to ensure that the demand is considered.
On the ongoing bandh and protests, Dr. Sapam Ranjan Singh acknowledged that peaceful protest is a democratic right. However, he appealed to the protesters to express their grievances peacefully and democratically without resorting to violence or causing inconvenience to the general public, students and people whose livelihoods may be affected by the disruptions.
Regarding the NRC process, he stated that the matter requires discussion and consideration at various levels and that several aspects may need to be addressed before the NRC can be taken up. He expressed hope that positive developments would emerge through continued efforts and dialogue.
Dr. Sapam Ranjan Singh further stated that the efforts should remain a collective endeavor and not be viewed through the lens of political parties, communities or religions. He expressed confidence that continued engagement with the Central leadership would yield a positive outcome.
During the press conference, Government of Manipur Spokesperson and MLA Thokchom Radheshyam, MLAs Th. Shyamkumar, P. Brojen, T. Robindro, Shri S. Premchandra, Sapam Kunjakeshwor Singh, Th. Shanti and Ashab Uddin were also present.
