IndiaThe Manipur government announced that the central government has postponed the 2027 census in the state due to local demands to first establish a National Register of Citizens (NRC), which would verify residents based on a 1951 baseline. Protests against the census have occurred, primarily led by non-Kuki-Zo communities, who argue that compiling the NRC first would help identify illegal immigrants from Myanmar and prevent inaccurate population data. Fourteen civil society organizations representing Meitei, Naga, and Meitei Panggal communities have pushed for this change, though they do not represent the Kuki-Zo communities. The Manipur chief minister acknowledged these efforts and encouraged continued dialogue rather than disruptive actions like strikes.
Bias read (Center): The article presents both the government's decision to defer the census and the demands from civil society groups without overtly favoring either side. It includes quotes from the government and mentions the concerns of protesters but does not use biased language or selectively omit perspectives.
