CSOs hold public discussion in Wangjing, demand NRC before Census
Source: The Sangai Express
Thoubal, March 25 2026:
In continuation of an ongoing awareness campaign advocating for the update of the National Register of Citizens (NRC) prior to the Census, 14 civil society organisations (CSOs), along with Wangjing Gram Panchayat Apunba Club Organisation (WANGGPACO, organised a public discussion at Wangjing Lakpa Iningthou Canteen Ground.
The discussion was held under the theme "No NRC, No Census", and witnessed participation from several CSO leaders and local representatives.
Among those present were chairman of 14 CSOs Kangleipak, T Sanajaoba; IPSA president M Bisheswor; KIL president Rk Sanahanbi; UCM general secretary, Santa Nahakpam; and local elders Khomba Meitei and Y Manaobi.
During the discussion, speakers expressed concern over the proposed Census scheduled to begin from April 1, stating that it would not be acceptable without first conducting the NRC process.
They argued that identifying illegal immigrants should precede the Census exercise.
Speakers recalled that after Manipur's merger with India, an NRC was conducted in 1951.However, citing data from the 2001 Census, they pointed out a significant - population increase - reportedly as high as 120 percent in some hill districts - raising apprehensions about the demographic changes.
Given the prevailing situation in Manipur, the speakers cautioned that proceeding with the Census without an updated NRC could result in the inclusion of non-residents and inaccurate data.
They urged the public to collectively oppose the Census slated from April 1 until the NRC process is completed.




