UMPC Calls for NRC Before Census and Delimitation in Manipur

IMPHAL, August 21, 2026: The United Meitei-Pangal Committee (UMPC), Manipur, has reiterated its demand that no Census or delimitation exercise be undertaken in the state before the implementation and completion of a National Register of Citizens (NRC), with 1951 as the base year.

In a press communiqué dated August 19, 2026, the organisation said population enumeration should first address concerns relating to citizenship verification and demographic integrity, which it said could have implications for Manipur's identity, land, resources and political representation.

The UMPC called on the Government of India and the Government of Manipur to implement an NRC through what it described as a lawful, transparent and verifiable process. It also urged that the Census be deferred until the NRC is completed and a credible citizenship database established.

The committee further called for delimitation to be undertaken only after the NRC, saying political representation should not be determined by unverified or disputed demographic figures. It also sought a review of newly recognised, disputed or unverified villages and settlements in accordance with applicable law and due process.

The UMPC said its demand was not directed against any genuine citizen or community, and maintained that bona fide citizens should be protected by law and given a fair opportunity to establish citizenship. At the same time, it called for concerns over alleged illegal immigration and demographic changes to be addressed through a lawful and verifiable process.

The organisation also urged both governments to engage stakeholders and address the issue through constitutional safeguards, transparency, dialogue and due process, in what it described as the larger interest of peace, justice and Manipur's democratic future.