JFD public meeting at Manipur University passes four resolutions opposing Census in Manipur until NRC updation and return of displaced persons.
Imphal, May 29: A public meeting organised by the Campaign for Just and Fair Delimitation (JFD) on Friday passed four resolutions demanding that the Census should not be conducted in Manipur until the National Register of Citizens (NRC) is updated and internally displaced persons (IDPs) return to their homes after restoration of peace in the state.
The meeting on the topic “NRC Updation before Census” was held at the auditorium hall of Manipur University and witnessed participation from a large number of people along with representatives of several civil society organisations.
According to the organisers, the resolutions were unanimously adopted without objection during the meeting. One of the key resolutions stated that the proposed housing census, scheduled to begin from August 16, and the population enumeration planned from February 1 next year, should not be conducted in Manipur unless the NRC is updated at the earliest to identify illegal immigrants and until normalcy is restored in the state.
The meeting also resolved that various forms of public agitation would be launched if the Government of India and the Government of Manipur proceed with the Census despite public opposition and ongoing protests.
Another resolution stated that, in order to protect the future of the indigenous people of Manipur, the public may decide to boycott the proposed Census while simultaneously intensifying agitation programmes if their demands are ignored. The gathering further resolved that people should remain vigilant and continue participating in various protest movements until the NRC is updated in the state.
Addressing the gathering, JFD Convenor Jeetendra Ningomba said the organisation has been carrying out movements aimed at identifying outsiders in the state despite facing “many hindrances” and what he described as “false narratives” spread against the campaign. He stated that the organisation would continue its efforts while prioritising the welfare and future of the indigenous communities of the region.
Jeetendra Ningomba also remarked that when the government fails to fulfil its responsibilities, actions taken by the people and civil society organisations to safeguard society should not be suppressed.
“If we do not save our own community, who else will save us?” he said while appealing to the people to unite in efforts to identify outsiders ahead of the Census process proposed by the Centre.
The JFD convenor urged the public to actively participate in future movements and awareness campaigns related to NRC updation and demographic concerns in the state. The meeting was moderated by retired Professor W. Nabakumar.
Leaders and representatives from 12 civil society organisations also addressed the gathering and shared their views regarding NRC updation, demographic issues and the proposed Census exercise in Manipur.
Speakers at the meeting stressed the need for greater public awareness regarding the implications of demographic changes and emphasised the importance of safeguarding the rights and interests of indigenous communities.
The programme concluded with participants reaffirming their support for the resolutions adopted during the meeting and their commitment to future democratic movements related to NRC updation and Census-related concerns in Manipur.
