Manipur to implement NRC, N Biren Singh says 'historic event' in state assembly

The Manipur Legislative Assembly has passed a private member resolution advocating for the implementation of the National Register of Citizens (NRC) in the state. The resolution, moved by a Tangkhul Naga MLA and supported by a diverse coalition including a Naga Minister, two Meitei Pangal MLAs and Meitei MLAs, marks a significant moment in the state's legislative history.

The Chief Minister of Manipur, N Biren Singh, took to the microblogging site X on March 2 to announce the momentous occasion stating the collective resolve of indigenous communities in Manipur to safeguard the state and the nation through the implementation of the NRC.

"The 1st of March, 2024, marks a historic event in the Manipur assembly," stated Chief Minister N Biren Singh. "This united effort showcases the resolve of indigenous communities in Manipur to implement NRC to save the state and the Nation. This is truly a pivotal moment in the Manipur Legislative Assembly's history."

The  Manipur Legislative Assembly convened on March 1 for its 5th session of the 12th Assembly, where it resolved to urge the Indian Government to expedite the implementation of the National Register of Citizens (NRC) in the state. This decision, echoing a previous resolution passed on August 5, 2022, underscores the assembly's unwavering dedication to preserving Manipur's security and integrity.

The assembly emphasized the significance of the NRC in protecting the state's interests and contributing to the nation's welfare. By urging the swift implementation of the NRC, the assembly aims to address citizenship and immigration issues effectively, ensuring accountability and transparency in demographic matters.

However, amidst this reaffirmation, tension arose as Congress MLAs expressed resentment over the Speaker's refusal to admit a private member's resolution on the Kangla Resolution. This discontent led the Congress party to abstain from participating in discussions regarding the re-affirmation of the NRC implementation.

Despite the opposition's absence from the discussion, the assembly proceeded with its resolution, emphasizing the urgency of implementing the NRC for the state's benefit. The resolution, initially proposed by MLA Leishiyo Keishing, received support from various quarters, including the opposition Congress party.

Speaking to the media after the session, the leader of the Congress Legislature Party (CLP), Okram Ibobi, highlighted the party's frustration over the Speaker's decision to reject the private member's resolution on the Kangla Resolution. Ibobi emphasized the importance of restoring peace in the state and expressed disappointment that the assembly did not adopt similar resolutions at Kangla on January 24, despite proposals from Congress MLAs.