Manipur Assembly Reiterates Call for NRC Implementation Within State Borders

In a significant move, the Manipur assembly has once again affirmed its resolution, originally adopted in August 2022, urging the implementation of the National Register of Citizens (NRC) within the state. 

Chief Minister N Biren Singh emphasized the critical importance of the measure in safeguarding the security and integrity of Manipur.

The decision to reaffirm the resolution stems from growing concerns over the rapid proliferation of new villages within Manipur, which poses a direct threat to the indigenous population. Chief Minister N Biren Singh highlighted the necessity of implementing the NRC as a means to safeguarding state interest

“Today, the Manipur legislative assembly took a significant step by reaffirming our resolution passed on August 5, 2022. We firmly believe that implementing the NRC in Manipur is crucial for safeguarding our state’s interests and contributing to the greater good of our nation,” wrote chief minister N Biren Singh in a post on X, formerly Twitter.

The proximity of Manipur's border with Myanmar adds complexity to the issue, with concerns raised about the presence of individuals from the Chin-Kuki community, who share close ties with Kukis residing in Manipur. Despite the introduction of the inner line permit (ILP) system in December 2019, which mandates permits for outsiders visiting Manipur, there remains skepticism about its effectiveness in detecting and addressing the presence of illegal migrants.

Notably, the NRC implementation in Assam, under the supervision of the Supreme Court, serves as a precedent. The NRC update in Assam, conducted in 2019, aimed to identify illegal immigrants who entered the state after March 25, 1971. However, the final NRC list published in August 2019 faced criticism, with concerns raised about the inclusion of ineligible individuals and the exclusion of eligible residents.

Chief Minister N Biren Singh called upon all citizens to support this endeavor, emphasizing the collective responsibility in building a stronger and more prosperous Manipur for future generations.