Census Amid Crisis: A Threat to Manipur's Stability
The decision by the Manipur Government to initiate steps for a Census amidst ongoing instability and crisis in the state has sparked concern among social workers and intellectuals. Shanjoy Ahanthem, a social worker, has warned that proceeding with the Census under the present circumstances could have serious implications for Manipur's future.
Concerns Over Law and Order
Ahanthem points out that the Ministry of Home Affairs has directives advising against conducting Census operations in states experiencing a breakdown of law and order, internal instability, or unresolved boundary disputes. He notes that the ongoing crisis in Manipur, which started in May 2023, has yet to be fully resolved, with many people still displaced and facing restrictions on movement.
Safety Risks and Public Cooperation
Ahanthem also emphasizes that general Census guidelines caution against undertaking the exercise in areas marked by safety risks, population displacement, and lack of public cooperation. He argues that these conditions are prevalent in Manipur, making it unsuitable for a Census.
Precedents and Parallels
Ahanthem draws parallels with previous instances where Census operations were postponed or disrupted due to instability or strong public opposition. He cites examples from Jammu and Kashmir, Assam, and Nagaland, where the Census was either postponed or conducted only partially due to similar reasons.
The Role of the National Register of Citizens
Ahanthem asserts that unless a National Register of Citizens (NRC) is first conducted to identify and segregate illegal immigrants from Myanmar and Bangladesh, holding a Census in Manipur would not be feasible or credible. He observes that, under normal circumstances, the State Assembly or the State Government could pass a resolution seeking postponement of the Census and forward it to the Government of India. However, in the absence of a popular government in Manipur, there is no clear institutional mechanism to pursue such a course.
Implications for Northeast India and Beyond
The potential consequences of conducting a Census in unstable conditions extend beyond Manipur. If the Census is conducted without addressing the issue of illegal immigration, it could lead to widespread public protests and potential unrest in the Northeast region and beyond. This could further complicate the ongoing efforts to address the region's complex issues, including border disputes, insurgency, and migration.
A Call to Action
Ahanthem appeals to the people of Manipur, as well as to intellectuals and social organizations, to treat the issue with utmost seriousness and to act collectively in the larger interest of the land and its indigenous people. He urges them to stand united in demanding a fair and credible Census that takes into account the unique challenges faced by Manipur.