Centre defers Census operations in Manipur
The Indian government has deferred the upcoming Census operations in Manipur following a high-level meeting led by Home Minister Amit Shah. The decision responds to local demands from various civil society groups to update the National Register of Citizens (NRC) before proceeding with the Census.
Why it matters
The delay highlights ongoing socio-political tensions in Manipur regarding citizenship documentation and the balance between central administrative mandates and regional demands.
Centre has deferred the Census operations in Manipur , the Chief Minister’s Office said on Monday (August 31, 2026).
The decision followed a high-level review meeting in New Delhi to assess the current situation in the State. Union Home Minister Amit Shah headed the meeting, which was attended by Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla, Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh, Union Home Secretary Govind Mohan, and other senior officials.
The focus of the meeting was on the demand raised by the people of Manipur, specifically Meitei, Pangals (Meitei Muslims), and Nagas, to update the National Register of Citizens (NRC) before conducting the Census.
“It was agreed to defer the Census exercise in the State considering the feelings and aspirations of the people of Manipur,” the Chief Minister said, thanking Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Mr. Shah, and other Central leaders for listening to the voices of Manipur’s inhabitants.
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