Amid growing political tension and administrative concerns in the northeastern state of Manipur, top leaders from various political parties raised serious allegations of census irregularities during a high-profile meeting with the Governor at Raj Bhavan. The development marks a significant escalation in the debate over the fairness and transparency of the ongoing demographic and population enumeration process in the conflict-ridden state.
Representatives from major political outfits—including the Congress, CPI, and several regional parties—joined hands to submit a memorandum to Governor Anusuiya Uikey, citing discrepancies in household surveys, inflated figures, and alleged biased data collection in specific districts.
Mounting Concerns Over Data Integrity
The leaders expressed alarm that recent data collection methods used during the census process lacked uniformity, were politically influenced, and could distort the state’s demographic profile. These issues, they warned, could have long-term implications for resource allocation, political representation, and even security.
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“The census is not just about numbers—it defines development, identity, and policy direction. If manipulated, it can severely affect the people of Manipur,” said a senior Congress leader after the meeting.
Among the major complaints was the alleged overcounting in some hill districts and underreporting in the valley areas. Political leaders claimed that in areas impacted by ethnic tensions, certain communities were favored while others were left out or underrepresented, raising questions over the neutrality of the process.
United Political Front Calls for Transparency
In a rare show of unity, parties across ideological divides stood together in voicing concern. The joint delegation demanded immediate intervention by the Governor and sought an independent audit or re-verification of census data, especially in sensitive areas.
This Manipur political news has intensified pressure on the state administration, which is already battling instability following months of ethnic violence, displacement, and law-and-order breakdowns.
“The census must be impartial. We’ve seen inflated household counts in districts where illegal settlements have gone unchecked. This is unacceptable,” said a leader from a regional party, urging the Governor to take up the matter with the Centre.
Governor Assures Action and Fair Review
Governor Anusuiya Uikey, while receiving the delegation, assured the leaders that their concerns would be forwarded to the Union Ministry of Home Affairs. She also promised to speak to the state government to ensure that all allegations of irregularities are investigated.
The Governor emphasized the importance of a fair and transparent enumeration process in maintaining peace, governance, and trust among the diverse communities of Manipur.
Officials from the state census office have so far maintained that the process is being carried out according to guidelines issued by the Registrar General of India. However, critics argue that in the current climate of political and ethnic unrest, extra caution and independent oversight are necessary.
Potential Impact on Policy and Governance
This controversy over census irregularities in India, particularly in a volatile state like Manipur, carries significant implications. The census data influences key decisions such as delimitation of constituencies, fund allocation, education planning, welfare schemes, and job reservations.
Manipulated or flawed census figures can lead to unequal representation and deepen ethnic and regional divides—already a sensitive issue in Manipur.
Experts warn that if the concerns raised by political parties are not addressed transparently, it could spark legal battles, public protests, and further political polarization in the state.
Growing Demand for Federal Oversight
Several civil society organizations and rights groups have also backed the political parties’ call for transparency. They demand that the central government step in to ensure that the census operation is free from influence and corruption.
The Manipur governor meeting has now put the spotlight back on the role of the Centre and the need for independent oversight mechanisms in fragile states like Manipur. Political observers say the situation is delicate, and how the government responds will determine whether public trust can be restored in official processes.
As the debate over Manipur’s census issue deepens, the united front by political parties highlights the urgent need for fairness and accuracy in data collection processes. With the Governor assuring action and rising public attention, the coming days will be critical in determining whether the state can correct course and ensure an equitable census for all its people.
