Shanta Singh Nahakpam vs Union of India and 5 Ors
- Court
- Manipur High Court
REPORTABLE
2026:MNHC:259-DB
Sl. Nos. 11-15
IN THE HIGH COURT OF MANIPUR
AT IMPHAL
PIL No. 14 of 2026
1. The Kangleipak Students’ Association (KSA) under Regd. No. 2041 of
2010 represented by its Secretary, Huirongbam Babulu Singh, aged
about 29 years, resident of Kakwa Nameirakpam Leikai, Thongju, P.O.
Manipur University, P.S. Singjamei, Imphal East District, Manipur –
795003.
2. The International Peace and Social Advancement (IPSA), a registered
body bearing Regd. No. 446 dated 20.03.2021 represented by its
President, Shri Maibam Bisheshwor, aged about 65 years, S/o M.
Nillababu Singh, resident of Sagolband Khamnam Leirak, P.O. Lamphel
& P.S. Imphal, District Imphal West, Manipur – 795004.
……Petitioners
-Versus-
1. The Union of India represented by the Secretary, Ministry of Home
Affairs, Govt. of India North Block, Central Secretariat, New Delhi –
110001.
2. The Registrar General and Census Commissioner, Ministry of Home
Affairs, Govt. of India, 2/A, Mansingh Road, New Delhi – 110011.
3. The Director of Census Operations and Chief Principal Census Officer,
Manipur, Ministry of Home Affairs, Govt. of India, Yumnam Leikai,
Imphal West District, Manipur – 795001.
4. The State of Manipur through the Chief Secretary, Govt. of Manipur,
Secretariat Building, P.O. Mantripukhri & P.S. Heingang, Imphal East
District, Manipur – 795002.
5. The Commissioner (Home), Govt. of Manipur, Secretariat Building,
P.O. Mantripukhri & P.S. Heingang, Imphal East District, Manipur –
795002.
Page 1 of 67
……Respondents
With
MC(PIL) No. 16 of 2026
[Ref.:- PIL No. 14 of 2026]
1. The Kangleipak Students’ Association (KSA) under Regd. No. 2041 of
2010 represented by its Secretary, Huirongbam Babulu Singh, aged
about 29 years, resident of Kakwa Nameirakpam Leikai, Thongju, P.O.
Manipur University, P.S. Singjamei, Imphal East District, Manipur –
795003.
2. The International Peace and Social Advancement (IPSA), a registered
body bearing Regd. No. 446 dated 20.03.2021 represented by its
President, Shri Maibam Bisheshwor, aged about 65 years, S/o M.
Nillababu Singh, resident of Sagolband Khamnam Leirak, P.O. Lamphel
& P.S. Imphal, District Imphal West, Manipur – 795004.
……Applicants
-Versus-
1. The Union of India represented by the Secretary, Ministry of Home
Affairs, Govt. of India North Block, Central Secretariat, New Delhi –
110001.
2. The Registrar General and Census Commissioner, Ministry of Home
Affairs, Govt. of India, 2/A, Mansingh Road, New Delhi – 110011.
3. The Director of Census Operations and Chief Principal Census Officer,
Manipur, Ministry of Home Affairs, Govt. of India, Yumnam Leikai,
Imphal West District, Manipur – 795001.
4. The State of Manipur through the Chief Secretary, Govt. of Manipur,
Secretariat Building, P.O. Mantripukhri & P.S. Heingang, Imphal East
District, Manipur – 795002.
5. The Commissioner (Home), Govt. of Manipur, Secretariat Building,
P.O. Mantripukhri & P.S. Heingang, Imphal East District, Manipur –
795002.
……Respondents
Page 2 of 67
With
MC(PIL) No. 18 of 2026
[Ref.:- PIL No. 14 of 2026]
1. The Kangleipak Students’ Association (KSA) under Regd. No. 2041 of
2010 represented by its Secretary, Huirongbam Babulu Singh, aged
about 29 years, resident of Kakwa Nameirakpam Leikai, Thongju, P.O.
Manipur University, P.S. Singjamei, Imphal East District, Manipur –
795003.
2. The International Peace and Social Advancement (IPSA), a registered
body bearing Regd. No. 446 dated 20.03.2021 represented by its
President, Shri Maibam Bisheshwor, aged about 65 years, S/o M.
Nillababu Singh, resident of Sagolband Khamnam Leirak, P.O. Lamphel
& P.S. Imphal, District Imphal West, Manipur – 795004.
……Applicants
-Versus-
1. The Union of India represented by the Secretary, Ministry of Home
Affairs, Govt. of India North Block, Central Secretariat, New Delhi –
110001.
2. The Registrar General and Census Commissioner, Ministry of Home
Affairs, Govt. of India, 2/A, Mansingh Road, New Delhi – 110011.
3. The Director of Census Operations and Chief Principal Census Officer,
Manipur, Ministry of Home Affairs, Govt. of India, Yumnam Leikai,
Imphal West District, Manipur – 795001.
4. The State of Manipur through the Chief Secretary, Govt. of Manipur,
Secretariat Building, P.O. Mantripukhri & P.S. Heingang, Imphal East
District, Manipur – 795002.
5. The Commissioner (Home), Govt. of Manipur, Secretariat Building, P.O.
Mantripukhri & P.S. Heingang, Imphal East District, Manipur – 795002.
……Respondents
With
MC(WP(C)) No. 649 of 2026
[Ref.:- WP(C) No. 623 of 2026]
Shanta Singh Nahakpam, aged about 44 years, S/o Nahakpam Shamungou
Singh, a permanent resident of Yaiskul Chingakham Leikai, P.O. & P.S.
Page 3 of 67
Imphal, Imphal West District, Manipur, A/p Chingmeirong Mamang Leikai,
National Highway No. 2, Opp. Nepali Basti, P.O. Mantripukhri, P.S.
Heingang, Imphal East District, Manipur.
……Applicant
-Versus-
1. The Union of India represented by the Secretary, Ministry of Home
Affairs, Government of India, North Block, New Delhi – 110001.
2. The Registrar General & Census Commissioner of India, Office of the
Registrar General & Census Commissioner of India, Ministry of Home
Affairs, Government of India, 2/A, Man Singh Road, New Delhi –
110011.
3. The Directorate of Census Operations, Manipur, represented by the
Director of Census Operations, Government of India, Imphal, Manipur.
4. The State of Manipur, represented by the Chief Secretary, Government
of Manipur, Civil Secretariat, Imphal West, Manipur.
5. The Principal Secretary (Home), Government of Manipur, Civil
Secretariat, Imphal West, Manipur.
6. The Joint Secretary (Home), Government of Manipur, Civil Secretariat,
Imphal, Manipur.
……Respondents
With
WP(C) No. 623 of 2026
Shanta Singh Nahakpam, aged about 44 years, S/o Nahakpam Shamungou
Singh, a permanent resident of Yaiskul Chingakham Leikai, P.O. & P.S.
Imphal, Imphal West District, Manipur, A/p Chingmeirong Mamang Leikai,
National Highway No. 2, Opp. Nepali Basti, P.O. Mantripukhri, P.S.
Heingang, Imphal East District, Manipur.
……Petitioner
-Versus-
1. The Union of India represented by the Secretary, Ministry of Home
Affairs, Government of India, North Block, New Delhi – 110001.
Page 4 of 67
2. The Registrar General & Census Commissioner of India, Office of the
Registrar General & Census Commissioner of India, Ministry of Home
Affairs, Government of India, 2/A, Man Singh Road, New Delhi –
110011.
3. The Directorate of Census Operations, Manipur, represented by the
Director of Census Operations, Government of India, Imphal, Manipur.
4. The State of Manipur, represented by the Chief Secretary, Government
of Manipur, Civil Secretariat, Imphal West, Manipur.
5. The Principal Secretary (Home), Government of Manipur, Civil
Secretariat, Imphal West, Manipur.
6. The Joint Secretary (Home), Government of Manipur, Civil Secretariat,
Imphal, Manipur.
……Respondents
BEFORE
HON’BLE THE CHIEF JUSTICE MR. M. SUNDAR
HON'BLE MR. JUSTICE A. GUNESHWAR SHARMA
For petitioners in PIL No. 14 of
2026 and applicants in MC (PIL)
No. 16 of 2026 & MC (PIL) No. 18
of 2026
Mr. Kh. Tarunkumar, Senior Advocate,
instructed by Mr. Meinam Rustam Singh,
Advocate
For petitioner in W.P. (C) No. 623
of 2026 and applicant in MC [W.P.
(C)] No. 649 of 2026
Mr. Hijam Chandrakumar Singh, Advocate
For respondent Nos. 1 to 3 in PIL,
Writ Petition, and Miscellaneous
Cases
Mr. Kh. Samarjit, Senior Advocate and Deputy
Solicitor General of India, instructed by Mr.
Nongdamba Naorem, Advocate
For respondent Nos. 4 & 5 in PIL
No. 14 of 2026, MC (PIL) No. 16 of
2026 and MC (PIL) No. 18 of 2026
Mr. Lenin Hijam, Senior Advocate and Advocate
General for State of Manipur, instructed by Ms.
Thanyomi Keishing, Advocate
For respondent Nos. 4 to 6 in W.P.
(C) No. 623 of 2026 and MC [W.P.
(C)] No. 649 of 2026
Mr. Lenin Hijam, Senior Advocate and Advocate
General for State of Manipur, instructed by Ms.
Thanyomi Keishing, Advocate
Date of Judgment & Order 04.11.2026
Page 5 of 67
COMMON JUDGMENT AND ORDER
(ORAL)
(M. Sundar, CJ)
[1] This common order will now govern and dispose of the
captioned main Public Interest Litigation, captioned main Writ Petition and
captioned 3 (three) Miscellaneous Cases thereat.
[2] In the hearing today, Mr. Kh. Tarunkumar, learned Senior
Advocate, instructed by Mr. Meinam Rustam Singh, learned counsel on
record for PIL petitioners in captioned PIL is before this Court (physical
Court); Mr. Hijam Chandrakumar Singh, learned counsel on record for
lone writ petitioner in captioned writ petition is before this Court on the
Video Conferencing (VC) platform; Mr. Nongdamba Naorem, learned
counsel on record for respondent Nos. 1 to 3 in captioned PIL as well
as captioned WP and MCs thereat; Mr. Lenin Hijam, learned Senior
Advocate and learned Advocate General for State of Manipur instructed
by Ms. Thanyomi Keishing, learned State counsel for respondent Nos.
4 & 5 in captioned PIL and MC thereat and respondent Nos. 4 to 6 in
captioned WP and MC thereat are before this Court (physical court). To
be noted, Mr. Kh. Samarjit, learned Senior Advocate and learned DSGI
(Deputy Solicitor General of India) who is leading Mr. Nongdamba
Naorem, learned counsel, is before this Court on the VC platform.
Page 6 of 67
[3] This common order has to be read in conjunction with and
in continuation of proceedings/orders made by this Court in the listing of
captioned matters on 31.08.2026 which reads as follows:
‘IN THE HIGH COURT OF MANIPUR
AT IMPHAL
PIL No. 14 of 2026
1. The Kangleipak Students’ Association (KSA) under Regd. No.
2041 of 2010 represented by its Secretary, Huirongbam
Babulu Singh, aged about 29 years, resident of Kakwa
Nameirakpam Leikai, Thongju, P.O. Manipur University, P.S.
Singjamei, Imphal East District, Manipur – 795003.
2. The International Peace and Social Advancement (IPSA), a
registered body bearing Regd. No. 446 dated 20.03.2021
represented by its President, Shri Maibam Bisheshwor, aged
about 65 years, S/o M. Nillababu Singh, resident of Sagolband
Khamnam Leirak, P.O. Lamphel & P.S. Imphal, District
Imphal West, Manipur – 795004.
……Petitioners
-Versus-
1. The Union of India represented by the Secretary, Ministry of
Home Affairs, Govt. of India North Block, Central Secretariat,
New Delhi – 110001.
2. The Registrar General and Census Commissioner, Ministry of
Home Affairs, Govt. of India, 2/A, Mansingh Road, New Delhi
– 110001.
3. The Director of Census Operations and Chief Principal Census
Officer, Manipur, Ministry of Home Affairs, Govt. of India,
Yumnam Leikai, Imphal West District, Manipur – 795001.
4. The State of Manipur through the Chief Secretary, Govt. of
Manipur, Secretariat Building, P.O. Mantripukhri & P.S.
Heingang, Imphal East District, Manipur – 795002.
5. The Commissioner (Home), Govt. of Manipur, Secretariat
Building, P.O. Mantripukhri & P.S. Heingang, Imphal East
District, Manipur – 795002.
……Respondents
With
MC(PIL) No. 16 of 2026
[Ref.:- PIL No. 14 of 2026]
1. The Kangleipak Students’ Association (KSA) under Regd.
No. 2041 of 2010 represented by its Secretary, Huirongbam
Page 7 of 67
Babulu Singh, aged about 29 years, resident of Kakwa
Nameirakpam Leikai, Thongju, P.O. Manipur University,
P.S. Singjamei, Imphal East District, Manipur – 795003.
2. The International Peace and Social Advancement (IPSA), a
registered body bearing Regd. No. 446 dated 20.03.2021
represented by its President, Shri Maibam Bisheshwor, aged
about 65 years, S/o M. Nillababu Singh, resident of
Sagolband Khamnam Leirak, P.O. Lamphel & P.S. Imphal,
District Imphal West, Manipur – 795004.
……Petitioners
-Versus-
1. The Union of India represented by the Secretary, Ministry
of Home Affairs, Govt. of India North Block, Central
Secretariat, New Delhi – 110001.
2. The Registrar General and Census Commissioner, Ministry
of Home Affairs, Govt. of India, 2/A, Mansingh Road, New
Delhi – 110001.
3. The Director of Census Operations and Chief Principal
Census Officer, Manipur, Ministry of Home Affairs, Govt. of
India, Yumnam Leikai, Imphal West District, Manipur –
795001.
4. The State of Manipur through the Chief Secretary, Govt. of
Manipur, Secretariat Building, P.O. Mantripukhri & P.S.
Heingang, Imphal East District, Manipur – 795002.
5. The Commissioner (Home), Govt. of Manipur, Secretariat
Building, P.O. Mantripukhri & P.S. Heingang, Imphal East
District, Manipur – 795002.
……Respondents
With
MC(WP(C)) No. 649 of 2026
Ref.:- WP(C) No. 623 of 2026
Shanta Singh Nahakpam, aged about 44 years, S/o Nahakpam
Shamungou Singh, a permanent resident of Yaiskul Chingakham
Leikai, P.O. & P.S. Imphal, Imphal West District, Manipur, A/p
Chingmeirong Mamang Leikai, National Highway No. 2, Opp.
Nepali Basti, P.O. Mantripukhri, P.S. Heingang, Imphal East
District, Manipur.
……Applicant
-Versus-
Page 8 of 67
1. The Union of India represented by the Secretary, Ministry
of Home Affairs, Government of India, North Block, New
Delhi – 110001.
2. The Registrar General & Census Commissioner of India,
Office of the Registrar General & Census Commissioner of
India, Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India, 2/A,
Man Singh Road, New Delhi – 110001.
3. The Directorate of Census Operations, Manipur, represented
by the Director of Census Operations, Government of India,
Imphal, Manipur.
4. The State of Manipur, represented by the Chief Secretary,
Government of Manipur, Civil Secretariat, Imphal West,
Manipur.
5. The Principal Secretary (Home), Government of Manipur,
Civil Secretariat, Imphal West, Manipur.
6. The Joint Secretary (Home), Government of Manipur, Civil
Secretariat, Imphal, Manipur.
……Respondents
With
WP(C) No. 623 of 2026
Shanta Singh Nahakpam, aged about 44 years, S/o Nahakpam
Shamungou Singh, a permanent resident of Yaiskul Chingakham
Leikai, P.O. & P.S. Imphal, Imphal West District, Manipur, A/p
Chingmeirong Mamang Leikai, National Highway No. 2, Opp.
Nepali Basti, P.O. Mantripukhri, P.S. Heingang, Imphal East
District, Manipur.
……Petitioner
-Versus-
1. The Union of India represented by the Secretary, Ministry
of Home Affairs, Government of India, North Block, New
Delhi – 110001.
2. The Registrar General & Census Commissioner of India,
Office of the Registrar General & Census Commissioner of
India, Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India, 2/A,
Man Singh Road, New Delhi – 110001.
3. The Directorate of Census Operations, Manipur, represented
by the Director of Census Operations, Government of India,
Imphal, Manipur.
4. The State of Manipur, represented by the Chief Secretary,
Government of Manipur, Civil Secretariat, Imphal West,
Manipur.
Page 9 of 67
5. The Principal Secretary (Home), Government of Manipur,
Civil Secretariat, Imphal West, Manipur.
6. The Joint Secretary (Home), Government of Manipur, Civil
Secretariat, Imphal, Manipur.
……Respondents
B E F O R E
HON’BLE THE CHIEF JUSTICE MR. M. SUNDAR
HON’BLE MR. JUSTICE A. GUNESHWAR SHARMA
(ORDER)
(Order of the Court was made by M. Sundar, CJ)
31-08-2026
[1] The following abbreviations/short forms are used in this order for the sake
of brevity/convenience and clarity:
Sl.
No.
Abbreviations/
Short Forms
Full Form/Expansion
1. PIL Public Interest Litigation
2. R1 first respondent
3. R2 second respondent
4. R3 third respondent
5. R4 fourth respondent
6. R5 fifth respondent
7. Census Act The Census Act, 1948 (37 of 1948)
8. Census Rules The Census Rules, 1990 as amended by
(Amendment) Rules, 2022
9. NRC The National Register of Citizens
10. IDP Internally Displaced Person
11. IDPs Internally Displaced Persons
12. I-impugned
Notification dated 07-01-2026 bearing Reference
No. S.O. 99(E) issued by R2 inter-alia in exercise
of powers under Sections 3, 17A of the Census
Act, Rules 6A and 6D of the Census Rules
13. II-impugned
Notification
Notification dated 22.03.2026 bearing Reference
No. H-3401/3/2025-HD-HD issued by R5 inter-
alia in exercise of powers under sub rule (iii) of
Rule 8 of Census Rules
14. Impugned
Notification
I-impugned Notification and II-impugned
Notification collectively
15. WP writ petition
16. MC miscellaneous case
17. MCs miscellaneous cases
Notifications
Page 10 of 67
Sl.
No.
Abbreviations/
Short Forms
Full Form/Expansion
18. R-1 to R-3 in
captioned PIL and
WP ‘collectively’
Central Government (solely for the sake of
convenience and clarity)
19. R-4 & R-5 in
captioned PIL and R-4
to R-6 in captioned
WP ‘collectively’
State Government (solely for the sake of
convenience and clarity)
20. AG Advocate General
21. DSGI Deputy Solicitor General of India
[2] In the hearing today, Mr. Kh. Tarunkumar, learned Senior Advocate
instructed by Mr. Meinam Rustam Singh, learned counsel on record for PiL
petitioners in captioned PiL; Mr. Hijam Chandrakumar Singh, learned counsel
on record for lone writ petitioner in captioned WP; Mr. Kh. Samarjit, learned
Senior Advocate and learned DSGI (Deputy Solicitor General of India) instructed
by Mr. N. Nongdamba, learned counsel on record for R1 to R3 in captioned PIL
as well as captioned WP and MCs thereat; Mr. Lenin Hijam, learned Senior
Advocate and learned Advocate General for State of Manipur instructed by Ms.
Thanyomi Keishing, learned State counsel for R4 and R5 in captioned PIL and
MC thereat and R4 to R6 in captioned WP and MC thereat are before this Court
(physical court).
[3] This proceedings/order has to be read in conjunction with and in
continuation of earlier proceedings made in the previous listings, more
particularly proceedings/orders made in the listings on 25-08-2026 and 28-08-
2026 which read as follows:—
‘BEFORE
HON’BLE THE CHIEF JUSTICE MR. M. SUNDAR
HON’BLE MR. JUSTICE A. GUNESHWAR SHARMA
25.08.2026
O R D E R
[M. Sundar, CJ]
[1] Read this in conjunction with and in continuation of
earlier proceedings made in captioned PIL No. 14 of 2026 and
MC(PIL) No. 16 of 2026 thereat on 21.08.2026.
Page 11 of 67
[2] Thereafter, one of us (Hon’ble Mr. Justice A.
Guneshwar Sharma) sitting as a single Bench referred captioned
WP(C) No. 623 of 2026 and MC(WP(C)) No. 649 of 2026 thereat to
Chief Justice vide Rule 3 (1) (d) of Chapter IV A of High Court of
Manipur Rules considering the importance of the matter. This was
vide a judicial order dated 24.08.2026. Pursuant to this judicial
order made by Hon’ble Single Bench, matter was placed before
Chief Justice on the administrative side and captioned WP(C) No.
623 of 2026 and MC(WP(C)) No. 649 of 2026 thereat have been
listed before this Division Bench pursuant to order dated 24.08.2026
made by Chief Justice on the administrative side. Today, Mr. Hijam
Chandrakumar Singh, learned counsel on record for writ
petitioner/MC applicant in WP(C) No. 623 of 2026 and MC(WP(C))
No. 649 of 2026 readily agrees to have his matter heard out by the
Division Bench.
[3] In the hearing today, Mr. Kh. Tarunkumar, learned
senior advocate instructed by Mr. Meinam Rustam, learned counsel
on record for PIL petitioners, Mr. Hijam Chandrakumar, learned
counsel on record for writ petitioner, Mr. Kh. Samarjit, learned
DSGI (Deputy Solicitor General of India) instructed by Mr. N.
Nongdamba, learned counsel on record for R1 to R3 in PIL and Mr.
Lenin Hijam, learned A.G. (Advocate General) instructed by Ms.
Thanyomi Keishing, learned State counsel on record for R4 & R5 in
PIL are before this Court.
[4] All the afore-referred counsel and senior counsel
agree/consent for tagging captioned PIL & WP and the MCs thereat.
This Court is convinced about the overlap and the common issues.
[5] Captioned PIL and captioned WP along with MCs
thereat shall now stand tagged.
[6] Issue notice in WP(C) No. 623 of 2026 and MC(WP(C))
No. 649 of 2026 thereat.
[7] Mr. N. Nongdamba, learned counsel who is present in
Court accepts notice for R1 to R3 in WP and senior advocate and
DSGI (Deputy Solicitor General of India) Mr. Kh. Samarjit who is
leading him is also present in Court. As regards R4 to R6 in WP, Ms.
Thanyomi Keishing, learned State Counsel accepts notice and Mr.
Lenin Hijam, learned senior advocate and learned Advocate
General for State of Manipur who is leading her is also present in
Court.
[8] In the earlier proceedings dated 21.08.2026 made in
PIL and MC thereat, this Court, particularly vide paragraph 13
thereat had directed State counsel and Central Government counsel
to file by way of affidavits/reports setting out their ‘stated positions’
on the subject more particularly with regard to the 4(four)
representations. Today, learned DSGI has placed before us a letter
dated 25.08.2026 bearing reference No. 9/12/2021-CD(Cen)
together with an annexure and scanned reproduction of the same is
as follows:
Page 12 of 67
[9] A careful perusal of the above brings to light that stated
position has not been set out but it has been made clear that a
decision may be taken at the level of the State with regard to request
for postponement of Census, 2027.
Page 13 of 67
[10] Likewise, learned AG has also not set out the stated
position of R4 & R5 in the captioned PIL (R4 to R6 in WP) and he
requests for listing on 28.08.2026 in this regard.
[11] Be that as it may, Mr. Kh. Tarunkumar, learned senior
advocate drew our attention to two inter-office communications,
one dated 16.01.2023 and another dated 12.06.2024 and scanned
reproduction of the same as placed before us are as follows:
Page 14 of 67
Page 15 of 67
[12] Adverting to the afore-referred inter-office
communications, Mr. Kh. Tarunkumar, senior advocate for PIL
petitioners pointed out that there is a unanimous resolution made
by the Manipur Legislative Assembly regarding introduction and
enforcement of NRC (National Register of Citizens). Learned senior
counsel pointed out that this unanimous resolution is dated
05.08.2022 and it has been subsequently reiterated by the Manipur
Legislative Assembly by another resolution dated 01.03.2024.
Page 16 of 67
[13] As regards the notification issued by State
Government which is under challenge being notification dated
22.03.2026, the same has been issued in exercise of power under
Rule 8 (iii) of Census Rules. Adverting to the instructions from the
office of the Register General and Census Commissioner of India
which has been placed before us (scanned and reproduced supra),
learned AG submitted that whether a decision to be taken at the
level of the State will includes a decision qua house listing
operations beyond 30.09.2026 is being examined.
[14] As regards captioned WP, it is predicated on a
representation dated 13.04.2026 sent by the writ petitioner and a
scanned reproduction of the same is as follows:
Page 17 of 67
[15] In the light of respondents seeking time to set out their
stated positions in writing either by way of affidavits/reports,
considering prayers in the captioned MCs is deferred to next
listing. Let the respondents place before this Court by way of
affidavits/reports setting out their stated positions with clarity
and specificity and next listing shall be peremptory in this
regard.
[16] List on 28.08.2026.
JUDGE CHIEF JUSTICE’
Page 18 of 67
‘B E F O R E
HON’BLE THE CHIEF JUSTICE MR. M. SUNDAR
HON'BLE MR. JUSTICE A. GUNESHWAR SHARMA
O R D E R
(Order of the Court was made by Mr. M. Sundar, CJ)
28.08.2026
[1] Read this in conjunction with and in continuation
of earlier proceedings made in the previous listing on
25.08.2026.
[2] In the hearing today, Mr. Kh. Tarunkumar, learned
senior advocate instructed by Mr. S. Johnson, learned
counsel on record for PiL petitioners and MC
(Miscellaneous Case) applicants thereat, Mr. H.
Chandrakumar, learned counsel on record for writ
petitioner in W.P.(C) No. 623 of 2026 and MC
(Miscellaneous Case) thereat are before this Court (Physical
Court).
[3] As regards respondents, Mr. Kh. Samarjit, learned
senior advocate and learned DSGI (Deputy Solicitor
General for India) instructed by Mr. N. Nongdamba, learned
counsel on record for R-1 to R-3 (respondent Nos. 1 to 3) in
PIL (Public Interest Litigation) as well as WP (writ petition)
and MCs thereat and Mr. Lenin Hijam, learned senior
advocate and learned AG (Advocate General) for State of
Manipur instructed by Ms. Thanyomi Keishing, learned
State counsel for R-4 and R-5(respondent Nos. 4 and 5) in
PIL and R-4 to R-6 (respondent Nos. 4 to 6) in WP and MC
thereat are before this Court (Physical Court).
[4] To be noted, paragraph Nos. 15 and 16 of earlier
proceedings made in the previous listing on 25.08.2026 read
as follows:
‘[15] In the light of respondents seeking time
to set out their stated positions in writing either
by way of affidavits/reports, considering prayers
in the captioned MCs is deferred to next listing.
Let the respondents place before this Court by
way of affidavits/reports setting out their stated
positions with clarity and specificity and next
listing shall be peremptory in this regard.
[16] List on 28.08.2026.’
Page 19 of 67
[5] Adverting to afore-referred paragraph No. 15,
learned DSGI and learned AG submitted, on instructions in
one voice in unison that all the issues raised by the PiL
petitioners and writ petitioner are being examined at the
highest level and that they are hopeful of reverting to this
Court with the viable answer if a further short
accommodation is given and if the matter is kept on Monday
(31.08.2026) at 02:00 p.m.
[6] Mr. Kh. Tarunkumar, learned senior advocate
highlighted the importance of maintaining status-quo (as of
today) between today and Monday. Responding to this, it
was pointed out by learned AG that even according to second
impugned notification dated 22.03.2026, the house-listing
operation of Census of India, 2027 is scheduled to commence
only from 01.09.2026.
[7] In the light of the narrative thus far, we accede to
afore-referred joint request of learned DSGI and learned AG
making it clear that next listing on Monday (31.08.2026)
shall be peremptory and all other contents of our earlier
proceedings made in the previous listing on 25.08.2026
remain as such/continue to operate.
[8] Adjourned and Registry is directed to list at 02:00
p.m. (at the specific request of learned AG and learned
DSGI) before this Special Bench on Monday (31.08.2026)
when this Special Bench will reconvene/reassemble.
[9] List on 31.08.2026 before this Division Bench
(Special Bench on that day) at 02:00 p.m.
JUDGE CHIEF JUSTICE’
[4] Adverting to earlier proceedings/orders made in the earlier
listings, more particularly paragraph No. 5 of the
proceedings/order made on 28-08-2026, learned DSGI submitted
on instructions, more particularly on specific instructions from R2
(Registrar General and Census Commissioner, Ministry of Home
Affairs, Government of India, 2/A, Mansingh Road, New Delhi –
110 001) that after discussions, a decision has been taken to
postpone/defer the house listing operations of Census of India,
Page 20 of 67
2027 as regards State of Manipur. Learned DSGI further submitted
that in this regard, R2 will now issue a notification to this effect,
suitably modifying/amending I-impugned notification i.e.,
notification dated 07-01-2026 bearing reference No. S.O. 99(E) in
due course. This stated position of R1 to R3 (Central Government)
is the submission of learned DSGI and this submission of learned
DSGI made on instructions at the Bar in the hearing is recorded
as an undertaking of R2.
[5] As regards R4 and R5 in captioned PiL and MC thereat and
R4 to R6 in captioned WP and MC thereat, learned AG for State of
Manipur submitted that in the light of stated position of R1 to R3
articulated by learned DSGI, R4 and R5 in captioned PiL and MC
thereat and R4 to R6 in captioned WP and MC thereat (State
Government) will now not commence house listing operation of
Census of India, 2027 from tomorrow (i.e., 01-09-2026, Tuesday)
pursuant to II - impugned notification issued by R5 (Commissioner
(Home), Government of Manipur, Secretariat Building, P.O.
Mantripukhri, P.S. Heingang, Imphal East District, Manipur –
795002) will be kept in abeyance awaiting notification of R1 to R3
(Central Government) postponing/ deferring house listing
operation of Census of India, 2027 given with respect to State of
Manipur. This submission/stated position of State Government is
also recorded as an undertaking of R5.
[6] Learned AG for State of Manipur and learned DSGI for
Central Government, submitted in unison that it would be
desirable to have the captioned matters listed after 4 (four) weeks
and in the interregnum, all issues raised by PiL petitioners as well
as writ petitioner will be considered at the highest level and the
same will be addressed is his further say.
[7] Mr. Kh. Tarunkumar, learned senior advocate appearing for
PiL petitioners and Mr. H. Chandrakumar, learned counsel
appearing for writ petitioner submitted that they are satisfied (for
the present) with due recording of the stated positions in instant
proceedings/order.
[8] In the light of stated positions of respondents (Central and
State Governments) the house listing operation of Census of India,
2027 scheduled to commence tomorrow (i.e., 01-09-2026, Tuesday)
Page 21 of 67
pursuant to II-impugned notification dated 22-03-2026 bearing
Reference No. H-3401/3/2025-HD-HD issued by R5
{Commissioner (Home), Government of Manipur} shall be kept in
abeyance by State Government until next listing which will be on
12-10-2026, Monday.
[9] Let the parties complete their pleadings in the interregnum
i.e., by next listing.
[10] List on 12-10-2026, Monday before this Special Bench at
02:00 p.m.
JUDGE CHIEF JUSTICE
Bipin/Victoria/Surjit
P.S. I : Upload forthwith.
P.S. II : All concerned to act on/remain bound by web copy of this
proceedings/order uploaded in official website of High
Court.’
[4] As already alluded to supra, instant order shall be read in
conjunction with and in continuation of afore-referred earlier
proceedings/orders made in the listing on 31.08.2026. In addition to this,
the afore-referred proceedings/orders made in the listing on 31.08.2026
shall now be read as an integral part and parcel of instant order. Though
obvious, it is made clear that this also means that the abbreviations and
short forms used in the earlier proceedings/orders dated 31.08.2026 will
now continue to be used in instant order.
[5] At the outset, we take up one of the captioned MCs namely,
MC (PIL) No. 18 of 2026 which has been filed with a prayer to accept new
documents filed by PIL petitioners (Annexures-M/1 to M/12) and consider
Page 22 of 67
the same. This MC (PIL) No. 18 of 2026 is not opposed by respondents.
This Court also finds that the prayer is innocuous therefore, prayer in MC
(PIL) No. 18 of 2026 is acceded to.
[6] Pending captioned main PIL and captioned main WP, there
were two Notifications published by R2 (published in the Gazette of India),
one dated 05.09.2026 bearing Reference No. S.O. 4917(E) and another
dated 30.10.2026 bearing Reference S.O. 5913 (E) and scanned
reproduction of the same are as follows:
Page 23 of 67
Likewise, pending captioned maters, there is one Notification
by R5 in the captioned PIL, the same is dated 22.03.2026 bearing
Reference No. H-3401/3/2025-HD-HD (published in the Manipur Gazette)
and scanned reproduction of the same is as follows:
[7] In the light of the afore-referred Notifications made by R2
and R5 pending captioned matters, census exercise in the State of Manipur
has now been put on hold.
[8] In the aforesaid scenario, there was consensus among all
the counsel, senior counsel, learned Advocate General, learned DSGI
Page 24 of 67
before this Court today that it will serve larger public interest better if there
is a direction to consider and take a call on as many as seven
representations which are before this Court as part of the case-file,
keeping the census exercise (in the State of Manipur) in abeyance vide
afore-referred three Notifications of R2 and R5.
[9] This Court for the sake of clarity and specificity, deems it
appropriate to scan and reproduce the seven representations and they are
as follows:
(i) Representation dated 21.08.2025 submitted by petitioner No. 2
in captioned PIL (Annexure-A/10) in PIL:
Page 25 of 67
Page 26 of 67
Page 27 of 67
Page 28 of 67
(ii) Representation dated 06.11.2025 submitted by Joint Committee
Opposing Delimitation Exercise in Manipur (Kangleipak) to which,
amongst others, petitioner Nos. 1 & 2 in captioned PIL are
signatories (Annexure-A/11 in the PIL):
Page 29 of 67
Page 30 of 67
Page 31 of 67
Page 32 of 67
Page 33 of 67
Page 34 of 67
Page 35 of 67
Page 36 of 67
Page 37 of 67
Page 38 of 67
Page 39 of 67
Page 40 of 67
(iii) Representation dated 13.04.2026 submitted by writ petitioner in
captioned WP (Annexure-A/1 in WP):
Page 41 of 67
Page 42 of 67
(iv) Representation dated 27.05.2026 submitted by Joint Committee
Opposing Delimitation Exercise in Manipur (Kangleipak) to which
petitioner No. 1 in captioned PIL (amongst others) is a signatory
{Annexure-A/14 in PIL}:
Page 43 of 67
Page 44 of 67
Page 45 of 67
Page 46 of 67
Page 47 of 67
Page 48 of 67
(v) Memorandum dated 06.07.2026 submitted by 14 Civil
Society Organisations (CSOs) Kangleipak (Manipur) to
which writ petitioner in captioned WP is one of the
signatories (Annexure-A/15 in PIL):
Page 49 of 67
Page 50 of 67
Page 51 of 67
Page 52 of 67
Page 53 of 67
Page 54 of 67
(vi) Memorandum dated 06.07.2026 submitted by 14 Civil Society
Organisations (CSOs), Kangleipak (Manipur) to which writ
petitioner is one of the signatories {Annexure-M/9 in MC (PIL)
No. 18 of 2026}:
Page 55 of 67
Page 56 of 67
Page 57 of 67
(vii) Same memorandum dated 06.07.2026 submitted by the 14 Civil
Society Organisations (CSOs), Kangleipak (Manipur) {to
another Hon’ble addressee} to which writ petitioner is a
signatory [Annexure-M/10) in MC (PIL) No. 18 of 2026]:
Page 58 of 67
Page 59 of 67
Page 60 of 67
Page 61 of 67
Page 62 of 67
[10] To be noted, all the seven representations scanned and
reproduced supra, the third representation being representation dated
13.04.2026 submitted by writ petitioner in captioned WP has already been
scanned and reproduced in earlier proceedings/orders of this Court dated
31.08.2026, nonetheless, it has been scanned and reproduced again for
the sake of convenience, clarity, ease of reference and chronological
adumbration of the representations.
[11] By consensus and consent, the following order is made:
(i) The afore-referred seven representations shall be
considered on its own merits, in accordance with law
and shall be disposed of by way of a speaking order
to be made by R2 in PIL and WP viz., Registrar
General and Census Commissioner, Ministry of Home
Affairs, Govt. of India, 2/A, Man Singh Road, New
Delhi – 110011;
(ii) It is open to any other individual or entity to send a
representation to R2 within three weeks from today
i.e., on or before 25.11.2026;
(iii) It is also open to PIL petitioners and writ petitioner to
send any additional representation within aforesaid
three weeks period, if so desired and so advised;
(iv) If there are any further representation/s and/or
additional representation/s from any other
person/entity or the PIL petitioners/writ petitioner,
within the aforesaid period of three weeks, the same
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shall also be considered on its own merits and in
accordance with law and disposed of by one common
speaking order to be made by R2. To be noted, any
representation sent after 25.11.2026 will be outside
the remit of instant order;
(v) In the course of considering the representations in the
aforesaid manner, it is open to State and more
particularly R2, to hold public consultations if
considered necessary. If it is considered not
necessary, the reasons shall be set out in the common
speaking order;
(vi) The afore-referred exercise of considering the seven
and additional/further representations (if any) on its
own merits and in accordance with law and making a
speaking order shall be concluded as expeditiously as
the official business of R2 and other entities,
individuals and officials that are concerned but in any
event, on or before 30.04.2027;
(vii) Pursuant to the afore-referred three Notifications,
2(two) made by R2 published in the Gazette of India
being Notification dated 05.09.2026 bearing
Reference No. S.O. 4917(E) and Notification dated
30.10.2026 bearing Reference No. S.O. 5913 (E) and
another Notification dated 22.03.2026 bearing
Reference No. H-3401/3/2025-HD-HD published in
the Manipur Gazette shall continue to operate till
Page 64 of 67
30.04.2027 and there shall not be any
rollback/modification of the same. To put it
differently, the census exercise for the State of
Manipur will continue to be put on hold/kept in
abeyance till 30.04.2027;
(viii) On disposal of the representations by way of one
common speaking order to be made by R2, the same
shall be served on Mr. M. Rustam Singh, learned
counsel on record for PIL petitioners and Mr. H.
Chandrakumar, learned counsel on record for writ
petitioner. To be noted, in the normal circumstances,
on disposal of a case, the vakalatnama will also get
terminated but in the instant case, with the consent
of all counsel/senior counsel before us and on the
basis of submissions made by Mr. M. Rustam Singh
and H. Chandrakumar Singh on instructions from their
respective clients, we make a mild departure and
write that the common speaking order disposing of
the aforesaid representations shall be served on the
two learned counsel and this is only for the sake of
ease of operation and convenience of all concerned.
Such service on both learned counsel shall be done as
expeditiously as the official business of R2 permits but
in any event within five working days from the date of
disposal of representations by making of one common
speaking order by R2;
Page 65 of 67
(ix) Post making afore-referred common speaking order
(disposing of representations) by R2, the census
process in the State of Manipur shall continue to be
kept in abeyance for a period of four weeks to enable
PIL petitioners, writ petitioner and or any other
person/s concerned with the matter to come to this
Court if they are either aggrieved or not satisfied with
the common speaking order of R2 and for this
purpose, the common speaking order shall be
hosted/uploaded in the official website of the
Government of Manipur and office of R2;
(x) If the afore-referred scenario of assailing the common
speaking order of R2 unfurls, though obvious, it is
made clear that this Court will consider the matter on
its own merits and in accordance with law
untrammeled by instant/earlier proceedings in
captioned matters and for this purpose it is further
made clear that all the rights and contentions of all
the parties before this Court are left open/preserved
and this includes contentions raised in the captioned
matters.
[12] Considering the facts and circumstances of the case, the
nature of the matter, larger public interest and national interest involved,
this Court deems it appropriate to place on record its appreciation for all
counsel, senior counsel, learned Advocate General and learned DSGI for
Page 66 of 67
taking a very fair and balanced approach to the matter without treating
the same like a regular adversarial legal drill.
[13] Ergo, sequitur is, captioned main PIL and main WP are
disposed of as closed in the aforesaid manner albeit with afore-referred
directions, observations and preservations of rights and contentions.
Consequently, MC (PIL) No. 16 of 2026 and MC [W.P. (C)] No. 649 of 2026
are disposed of as closed. As already alluded to supra, MC (PIL) No. 18 of
2026 is allowed/ordered as prayed for.
[14] There shall be no order as to costs.
JUDGE CHIEF JUSTICE
FR/NFR
Sandeep/Victoria
P.S. I : Upload forthwith
P.S. II : All concerned will stand bound by web copy uploaded in High Court website
inter alia as the same is QR coded.
Digitally signed by
KABORAMBAM
SANDEEP SINGH
Date: 2026.11.04
20:38:52 +05'30'
KABORAMBA
M SANDEEP
SINGH
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