Asem Bhakta Singh, Special Correspondent North East
Imphal: (Waari Singbul Network) In a formal communication directed to Union Home Minister Shri Amit Shah, the Union Minister of State for Education & External Affairs, Dr. Rajkumar Ranjan Singh, put forward several significant suggestions regarding the impending delimitation process for Parliamentary and Assembly constituencies in Manipur.
The Hon’ble Minister stressed the crucial need for the delimitation process to be based on the latest census figures, highlighting the importance of fairness and impartiality without any bias toward particular communities or ethnic groups. Emphasizing transparency as a cornerstone, he urged for an unbiased approach to ensure an equitable and just conclusion.
Among the proposals, the Hon’ble Minister recommended the establishment of an additional unreserved Lok Sabha constituency. This constituency would encompass the eight unreserved Assembly Constituencies currently part of the Outer Manipur Lok Sabha constituency, which presently stands as an ST reserved constituency. Anticipating a potential increase in Assembly seats from the existing 60 to 70, he advocated for a balanced distribution or creation of both reserved (SC/ST) and unreserved seats.
Looking ahead to the lifting of the moratorium in 2026 and the subsequent changes, the Hon’ble Minister emphasized the necessity for a comprehensive delimitation exercise based on the latest census data, incorporating biometrics and Aadhar linkage for accuracy and authenticity.
Expressing confidence in these proposed recommendations, the Union Minister highlighted their potential to contribute to a more balanced and fair political representation in Manipur. He emphasized that these suggestions align with the democratic principles and core values of Bharat, aiming for an equitable representation for all.
