Congress seeks postponement of Census in Manipur, cites displacement
The Congress party has requested a postponement of the Census in Manipur, citing the ongoing violence and displacement of thousands of residents. They argue that an accurate count is impossible under current conditions and have called for the completion of the National Register of Citizens first.
Why it matters
The request underscores the severe impact of civil unrest on administrative processes and the political sensitivity surrounding population data in conflict-affected regions.
The Congress on Thursday (August 20, 2026) sought the postponement of the Census exercise in Manipur, citing continuing violence and the displacement of thousands of people.
Inner Manipur MP A. Bimol Akoijam of the Congress said conducting the exercise under the present circumstances would be an injustice to those affected by the conflict.
Addressing a press conference in Delhi, Mr. Akoijam said that nearly 60,000 people remained homeless since the violence in the State began on May 3, 2023, with many still living in relief camps. More than 10,000 houses had been destroyed and several villages devastated, he said.
The Congress clarified that it was seeking a postponement, not cancellation, of the Census exercise in the State until conditions became conducive.
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