
Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh has reiterated his support for the implementation of the National Register of Citizens (NRC) in the state, saying it is necessary to identify and deport illegal immigrants. He made the remarks while addressing a gathering of artistes and cultural figures in Imphal on Saturday.
Singh urged the Meitei community to act as 'big brothers and sisters' and take the lead in restoring peace in the state, which has been rocked by ethnic violence between the Meitei and Kuki communities since May 2023. He appealed to artistes to use their influence to promote harmony and unity.
The Chief Minister's comments come amid continued tension in Manipur, where over 200 people have died in the conflict. The state government has maintained that the NRC is a key step to address demographic concerns and ensure security.
The NRC has been a politically charged demand in Manipur, particularly among Meitei groups who fear demographic change due to immigration from Myanmar and Bangladesh. However, the process faces legal and logistical hurdles, including a lack of updated citizenship data and opposition from tribal organisations who view it as a tool to marginalise non-Meitei communities. The Centre has not announced any timeline for a state-wide NRC in Manipur. The next signal to watch is whether the state government tables a concrete proposal before the assembly or the Ministry of Home Affairs.
Source: ndtv.com
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