Manipur Assembly adopts resolutions to establish population commission, implement NRC

The Manipur Assembly has adopted resolutions to establish a State Population Commission (SPC) and implement the National Register of Citizens (NRC), in response to demands from tribal groups. At least 19 apex tribal organizations and their affiliates had written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah, demanding the NRC and other measures to protect indigenous people from a growing number of non-local residents.

The resolutions were raised by Janata Dal (United) MLA Khumukcham Joykishan, who highlighted the rapid population growth in Manipur's hill districts compared to the valley districts. Joykishan cited the need to study the situation and take action due to the potential extinction of smaller indigenous communities. Chief Minister Nongthombam Biren Singh stated there was no harm in approving the resolution.

The Manipur government had already approved 1961 as the base year for identifying 'natives' and introduced the Inner-Line Permit (ILP) to regulate entry into the state. However, tribal organizations argue that the ILP alone is insufficient, as Manipur needs a clear definition of 'indigenous inhabitants'. The organizations pointed out the continuous influx of immigrants from Bangladesh, Myanmar, and Nepal, which has led to migrants taking possession of socio-economic and political rights of indigenous people.