Mass rally in Imphal demanding NRC before census

Imphal: Hundreds of people took out a massive rally in Imphal on Monday, demanding the updating of the National Register of Citizens (NRC) with 1951 as base year before the conduct of the census operations in Manipur.

The rally held under the banner of 14 CSOs Kangleipak, a conglomerate of 14 CSOs, culminated with a public convention at THAU ground, where six resolutions were adopted.

Addressing the gathering, convener of 14 CSOs Kangleipak, Shanta Nahakpam, said the Centre has acknowledged the issue of illegal immigration in the NE region, yet no effective mechanism has been implemented to identify and deport foreigners. He alleged that the ongoing crisis in Manipur is closely linked to illegal immigration and the unchecked influx of foreigners into the state.

Shanta further said Chin-Kuki migrants and narco-terrorist elements have entered Manipur in large numbers and are attempting to establish a separate homeland.

According to him, the armed conflict and narco-terrorism currently affecting the state cannot be effectively addressed unless illegal migrants are identified and deported. He stressed that updating the NRC before the census is essential to prevent foreigners from claiming Indian citizenship through the enumeration process.

Meanwhile, the convention held following the long march rally adopted six resolutions, including urging both the Manipur government and the centre to immediately update the NRC 1951 before proceeding with census operations in the state.

The convention further resolved authorities concerned to update the NRC alongwith a precondition to be signed under a tripartite framework involving civil society organisations, the state government and the central government.

Another resolution called upon Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh to take a special initiative in facilitating dialogue between stakeholders and the central government on the issue.

The gathering also decided to urge the High-Level Committee on Demographic Changes (HLCDC) to include a nominee or agency of the Manipur government in its deliberations.

In addition, the convention resolved that the views of the general public should be sought before the 14 CSOs take further decisions on the matter.

It was also resolved to submit the proceedings and resolutions of the convention to chief minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh, state home minister Govindas Konthoujam and other authorities within the next two days, seeking immediate consideration and necessary action.