Congress demands Census postponement in Manipur amid displacement crisis

The Congress party has formally sought a postponement of the Census in Manipur, contending that proceeding with the exercise under current circumstances would be inequitable to residents displaced by the state's prolonged ethnic tensions.

Inner Manipur Member of Parliament A. Bimol Akoijam raised the concern, emphasizing that conducting the Census while large sections of the population remain displaced from their homes would compromise the accuracy and fairness of the enumeration process. The party has highlighted the humanitarian dimensions of the issue, noting that many residents affected by the conflict lack stable residences or documentation necessary for proper Census registration.

The request reflects broader concerns about administrative operations in Manipur, where communal violence has disrupted normal civic activities since May 2023. The Congress party has argued that the government should prioritize stabilizing the situation and facilitating the return of displaced persons before undertaking a comprehensive Census.

The postponement plea comes as various stakeholders in Manipur have raised questions about implementing major administrative exercises amid the ongoing instability. Census officials have not yet responded to the Congress party's petition regarding the proposed deferment.