ZSF express concern over propose conduct of Census in Manipur

The Zomi Students' Federation (ZSF) has expresses grave concern regarding the proposed conduct of Census operations in Manipur under the prevailing circumstances.

According to a recent Manipur government gazette notification, house listing operations for Census 2027 will be conducted from September 1 to September 30, 2026. The schedule aligns with the timeline set by the Ministry of Home Affairs, with preparatory enumeration activities planned between August 17 and August 31, 2026.

In a release issued on Friday, ZSF noted that the situation since 3rd May 2023 has resulted in large-scale internal displacement across the State, with many individuals and families continuing to reside in relief camps or outside their original places of habitation.

In such a context, any enumeration exercise risks capturing populations at their points of displacement rather than their native/original and legally recognised places of residence. This gives rise to a phenomenon of data migration, wherein population figures are geographically reassigned without any corresponding demographic change, the student body stated.

ZSF stated that such distortions may have far-reaching implications for administrative planning, resource allocation, dilution of electoral representations at places of origin and the overall integrity of demographic records.

Further, the student body claimed that absence of conditions necessary for a credible Census including normalcy, stable habitation patterns, and full administrative functionality raises serious concerns regarding the reliability and acceptability of any data collected at this stage.

Emphasizing that the Census is a fundamental process that influences representation and government rather than just being a statistical exercise., ZSF said it is therefore essential that such an exercise be undertaken only under conditions that ensure accuracy, fairness, and institutional credibility.

The student body further urges the concerned authorities to adopt a considered and calibrated approach, mindful of the broader need to preserve public confidence, uphold institutional integrity, and support ongoing efforts toward stability in a conflict-affected State.