Former Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh said Tuesday he met Union Home Minister Amit Shah in New Delhi and raised issues of economic blockades, disrupted supplies of essential goods, and the demand to conduct the National Register of Citizens before any census in the state. Singh, back in Imphal after a two-day trip, told Shah that residents support a census but want the NRC completed first. Shah assured him the blockade and supply problems would be resolved soon. Singh noted he had informed Shah about the NRC demand first raised by his government in February 2023, before ethnic clashes began. Over 260 people have died and thousands displaced in violence between Meitei and Kuki-Zo groups since May 2023. He added that people fear illegal immigrants have caused demographic shifts. Protests have occurred, including a student demonstration in Imphal and torch rallies. Singh also mentioned 926 unrecognised villages and a request for their recognition. He said Shah listened carefully and expects a positive response.
