27/08/2026
IMPLEMENTATION OF NRC IN MANIPUR: A NECESSARY STEP FOR DEMOGRAPHIC JUSTICE AND PEACE
The Manipuri Meitei Pangal Social Unification and Upliftment Organisation (MMSUUO) strongly supports the legitimate demand for the implementation of the National Register of Citizens (NRC) in Manipur through a fair, transparent and legally sound process.
Manipur is a state with a unique history, diverse indigenous communities and a sensitive international border with Myanmar. Therefore, accurate identification of citizens and proper documentation of the population is essential for protecting the rights and interests of genuine citizens while ensuring that no innocent person is deprived of their legitimate rights.
We believe that the concerns surrounding undocumented migration, demographic changes, electoral representation and the protection of indigenous communities deserve serious attention from the Government of India. Such concerns should not be dismissed as political rhetoric. At the same time, the process must be based on law, verified records, due process and constitutional safeguards, rather than assumptions or unverified claims.
MMSUUO therefore urges the Central Government to initiate a credible and comprehensive process for preparing an NRC for Manipur. The exercise should involve proper verification of citizenship documents, adequate opportunities for individuals to establish their citizenship, and an effective mechanism for appeal and review. No genuine citizen should suffer because of administrative errors, lack of documentation or circumstances beyond their control.
We also believe that the establishment and strengthening of appropriate Foreigners Tribunals or other legally authorised mechanisms is important so that cases involving disputed citizenship can be examined independently and fairly. Citizenship determination must remain a legal process and should never become a means of discrimination against any particular community.
The Government should also address concerns relating to the international border, strengthen lawful border management and prevent illegal entry through effective administrative and security measures. At the same time, humanitarian principles and applicable laws must be respected.
MMSUUO further appeals to the Government of India and the Government of Manipur to engage all indigenous communities, civil society organisations, elected representatives and other stakeholders in a constructive dialogue. The objective should be peace, justice, demographic stability, constitutional protection and harmonious coexistence among all communities of Manipur.
We believe that a properly conducted NRC can help establish reliable demographic data, strengthen electoral integrity and provide greater clarity regarding citizenship, provided it is implemented impartially and in accordance with the Constitution and laws of India.
MMSUUO therefore calls upon the Government of India to seriously consider the long-standing demand for the implementation of NRC in Manipur and to take appropriate steps towards a transparent, inclusive and legally sound citizenship verification process.
MMSUUO
Manipuri Meitei Pangal Social Unification and Upliftment Organisation
For Unity, Peace, Justice and Development Manipur
