Centre Defers Census 2027 in Manipur, CM Calls It Welcome and Consequential Decision

UKHRUL: The Union Ministry of Home Affairs on Saturday issued a Gazette notification deferring the Census 2027 houselisting operations in Manipur, a decision chief minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh described as welcome and consequential for the state.

According to the official notification, the Central Government exercised powers under Section 3 and Section 17A of the Census Act, 1948, read with Rules 6A and 6D of the Census Rules, 1990, to defer the houselisting operations for Census 2027 in Manipur. The notification amends an earlier order dated January 7, 2026, inserting the words “except the State of Manipur till further declaration” after the phrase covering all states and union territories in India.

Reacting to the development, chief minister Khemchand Singh said, “A welcome and consequential decision for Manipur. The deferment of the Census, notified through the Gazette today, reflects the Government of India’s considered attention to the genuine concerns of our people.”

Also read | 14 CSOs Welcome Manipur Assembly Resolution on NRC, Reaffirm Demand for 1951 as Base Year

He added, “My sincere gratitude to Hon’ble PM Shri Narendra Modi ji and Hon’ble HM Shri Amit Shah ji for their leadership and understanding.” He said the state government would remain focused on safeguarding the legitimate interests of its people and strengthening peace, security and stability in Manipur.

Former chief minister N. Biren Singh also welcomed the decision, saying, “A welcome and significant decision for the people of Manipur. The Census has been deferred, with the Gazette notification published today.”

He further said, “Heartfelt gratitude to Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji and Hon’ble Union Home Minister Shri Amit Shah ji for understanding the pulse of the people and giving due consideration to the genuine concerns surrounding this important issue.”