Imphal, August 18, 2026: The Government of Manipur has reiterated its demand for the updation of the National Register of Citizens (NRC) in the State, citing concerns over demographic changes, demographic imbalance and alleged illegal migration.
Speaking at a press conference at the Directorate of Information and Public Relations (DIPR), Nityaipat Chuthek, Government spokesperson and MLA Dr. Sapam Ranjan Singh said the State Government remained committed to addressing concerns surrounding the NRC and Census.
Dr. Sapam Ranjan Singh recalled that the Manipur Legislative Assembly had passed a resolution on August 5, 2022, urging the Centre to undertake NRC updation in the State. The resolution was subsequently reaffirmed on March 1, 2024. He said the State Government had continued to pursue the matter through correspondence with the Union Ministry of Home Affairs.
He announced that a delegation of MLAs would travel to New Delhi to meet Central leaders, seek guidance and urge the Union Government to take up the NRC updation process in Manipur.
The spokesperson stressed that the issue should be pursued collectively, beyond political, community or other differences, as it concerns the future of the State and its people. He also acknowledged the demand from civil society organisations and sections of the public that the NRC should be conducted before the Census.
On the ongoing bandh and protests, Dr. Sapam Ranjan Singh said peaceful protest was a democratic right but appealed to protesters to express their grievances peacefully and democratically. He urged them to avoid violence and disruptions that could affect the general public, students and livelihoods.
He further said that the NRC process would require discussion and consideration at various levels, with several aspects needing to be addressed before implementation. He expressed hope that continued dialogue and engagement with the Central Government would lead to positive developments.
The spokesperson reiterated that the issue should not be viewed through the lens of political parties, communities or religions, and expressed confidence that continued engagement with the Central leadership would produce a positive outcome.
Government spokesperson and MLA Thokchom Radheshyam, along with MLAs Th. Shyamkumar, P. Brojen, T. Robindro, S. Premchandra, Sapam Kunjakeshwor Singh, Th. Shanti and Ashab Uddin were also present at the press conference.
Users Today : 117
Total Users : 79790