Congress leader Ibobi urges Centre to delay Manipur census till normalcy is restored

In a recent development, Congress leader Ibobi Singh has called upon the Centre to postpone the upcoming census in Manipur until the region achieves a state of normalcy. His appeal stems from concerns over the displacement of people, potential inaccuracies in census data, and the ongoing challenges to law and order in the state.

Manipur, a northeastern state in India, has been grappling with significant unrest and security issues for several years. The region has been witness to various incidents of violence, including communal riots, insurgent activities, and clashes between different factions. These ongoing tensions have led to widespread displacement of civilians, making it difficult for them to participate in the census or even to return to their homes.

Ibobi Singh has highlighted that the displacement of people poses a significant challenge to the accuracy of census data. The census is a crucial exercise that provides vital information about the population, demographics, and socio-economic conditions of a region. However, in the current situation, it is unlikely that the census will be able to capture an accurate picture of Manipur's population, as many residents may be unable to provide their true details or may not be present in their designated areas.

Moreover, the ongoing law and order situation in Manipur raises concerns about the safety of census workers and the general public. The state has seen a spike in violent incidents, which could create an unsafe environment for census operations. The Centre needs to ensure the security of both the census staff and the people they are trying to survey.

In addition to these concerns, Ibobi Singh has pointed out that the census is not just a statistical exercise but also has significant implications for the allocation of resources and the implementation of developmental policies. Inaccurate data could lead to misallocation of funds and ineffective policies, which would further exacerbate the challenges faced by Manipur.

The Congress leader has emphasized that delaying the census would allow the state government and Centre to focus on restoring normalcy and ensuring the safety and well-being of the people. By doing so, the census can be conducted in a more conducive environment, ensuring that the data collected is accurate and reliable.

The Centre has been aware of the challenges faced by Manipur and has been closely monitoring the situation. However, a decision on whether to delay the census has not yet been made. The state government and various stakeholders are expected to continue discussions on this matter, with the ultimate goal of ensuring a smooth and accurate census that reflects the true demographic and socio-economic realities of Manipur.

In conclusion, Ibobi Singh's call for delaying the census in Manipur highlights the complexities and challenges posed by ongoing unrest and displacement. The Centre faces a delicate balance between the importance of accurate census data and the need to prioritize the safety and well-being of the people in the region. As discussions continue, it is crucial that all stakeholders work together to find a solution that addresses these concerns and ensures a fair and accurate census for Manipur.