Congress Calls for Normalcy Restoration in Manipur Ahead of Census Exercise
The Manipur Pradesh Congress Committee (MPCC) has made a strong appeal to the government, urging the complete restoration of normalcy in the state and the resettlement of internally displaced persons (IDPs) to their original homes before proceeding with the upcoming census. This demand was voiced during a media briefing held at the Congress Bhavan in Imphal on Saturday, where MPCC president and former Manipur chief minister Okram Ibobi Singh emphasized the critical importance of accurate data collection for the state's future development.
Accurate Census Data Essential for Planning and Delimitation
Okram Ibobi Singh highlighted that the census is far from an ordinary administrative task. It serves as the foundational bedrock for development planning and even the delimitation of electoral constituencies. He stressed that capturing precise data on houses and population is currently unfeasible in Manipur's present situation, where thousands of people have been living in relief camps since May 2023 due to ongoing disruptions.
"There are thousands of internally displaced persons who are not in their original homes. In such a situation, how can house listing and data collection be conducted accurately?" Singh questioned, pointing out the practical challenges posed by the displacement. He argued that without normalcy and proper resettlement, any census data would be flawed, potentially leading to misguided policies and unfair representation in delimitation processes.
Concerns Over Past Census Anomalies and Influx from Myanmar
Singh also drew attention to historical irregularities in Manipur's census data, particularly from 2001. He noted that while the national average population growth was around 24%, some districts in Manipur recorded abnormally high increases, soaring up to 160% or even 300%. Such discrepancies, he warned, could create serious issues if used as a basis for delimitation, affecting political boundaries and resource allocation.
Furthermore, Singh addressed the influx of people from Myanmar following the 2021 military coup, underscoring the need for proper identification and verification. This situation adds another layer of complexity to the census process, as it necessitates thorough checks to ensure data integrity and prevent inaccuracies that could skew demographic records. The MPCC president emphasized that without addressing these factors—restoring normalcy, resettling IDPs, and managing cross-border movements—the census risks producing unreliable data that could hinder Manipur's progress for years to come.
The Congress's call underscores a broader concern for governance and accuracy in state affairs, as Manipur navigates its path toward stability and development. By prioritizing normalcy and resettlement, the MPCC aims to ensure that the census serves its intended purpose as a tool for equitable planning and representation.
