Congress in Manipur Calls for Census Delay Amid Ongoing Violence
Synopsis
In a bold statement, the Congress party in Manipur is urging a delay in the upcoming census, citing ongoing ethnic violence and the need for a return to normalcy for displaced persons. Their demands highlight the urgency for justice and stability in the region.
Key Takeaways
Congress party in Manipur demands census delay due to violence.
Recent clashes have resulted in multiple fatalities.
Call for justice and expedited investigations into violent incidents.
Proposal for an Inquiry Commission to investigate shootings.
Need for law and order restoration before census activities.
Imphal, April 15 (NationPress) In a significant move, the Opposition Congress party in Manipur has requested the postponement of the upcoming census in the state. They argue that it should be delayed until peace is fully restored and all Internally Displaced Persons affected by ethnic violence can safely return to their homes.
As per a previous notice from the Registrar General and Census Commissioner of India, Mritunjay Kumar Narayan, the self-enumeration and House Listing and Housing Census in Manipur are set to commence on August 17 and run until September 30 this year.
In a memorandum addressed to Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla, state Congress President Okram Ibobi Singh highlighted that between February 8 and April 10, at least eight individuals lost their lives in various violent incidents across multiple districts, including two children and a Border Security Force jawan.
Singh, who has held the Chief Minister position for three consecutive terms from 2001 to 2017, urged the government to hasten the investigation into the deaths of two minors in Tronglaobi village in Bishnupur district on April 7, demanding that those responsible face justice within a specified timeframe.
He also called for the formation of an Inquiry Commission under the Commission of Inquiry Act, 1952, to investigate the shooting incident in the same village that resulted in the deaths of three protesters on April 7.
Addressing the ongoing unrest, Singh pointed out that violent confrontations, coupled with arson, have erupted between two communities in the Ukhrul and Kamjong districts, resulting in two fatalities and the closure of a crucial highway since February 8.
On April 10, Border Security Force jawan Mithun Mandal was killed while on duty in Ukhrul district after being attacked by suspected militants during Road Opening Party operations in the violence-stricken area.
The Congress memorandum further contended that the Manipur Police have become ineffective over the past three years due to vested interests and administrative shortcomings.
"We therefore demand that policing in Manipur be reinstated, reorganized, and reformed to enhance its effectiveness as the primary institution responsible for maintaining law and order in the state," it stated.
Moreover, the party emphasized that the proposed census and delimitation activities should be postponed until a just and transparent process distinguishes citizens from non-citizens under the Citizenship Act, 1955, and until law and order is adequately restored.
Additionally, Congress called for the creation of a Foreigners Tribunal in Manipur under the Immigration and Foreigners Act, 2025, to tackle concerns regarding illegal immigration and foreign infiltration in the state.
Point of View
As the Congress party's call for a census delay underscores the pressing need for a return to normalcy amidst ongoing ethnic tensions. This situation warrants careful monitoring and a coordinated response to ensure the well-being of all communities involved.
NationPress
2 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the Congress party in Manipur requesting a delay for the census?
The Congress party insists on delaying the census until normalcy is restored and all Internally Displaced Persons can return safely to their homes due to ongoing ethnic violence.
What incidents prompted the Congress to take this step?
The call for a delay follows multiple violent incidents resulting in deaths, including two minors and a Border Security Force jawan, highlighting the unstable situation in the region.
What additional demands did the Congress party make?
They requested expedited investigations into recent killings and the establishment of an Inquiry Commission to address the violence, alongside a fair process for distinguishing citizens under the Citizenship Act.
