Authorities in Mizoram will include refugees and internally displaced persons (IDPs) in the ongoing national census, officials confirmed on Wednesday, stressing that the exercise is solely aimed at population enumeration and bears no link to citizenship status.
At a press briefing, representatives of the Directorate of Census Operations said that individuals from neighbouring countries as well as those displaced internally would be counted if they are residing in the state during the enumeration period. This includes refugees from Myanmar and Bangladesh, along with IDPs from Manipur.
Officials clarified that those living in rented accommodation or in relief camps would be covered under the standard census process. “The census is strictly a population-counting exercise and not linked to citizenship verification,” a senior official said, underlining efforts to address concerns surrounding the inclusion of displaced populations.
Deputy Director Jamil stated that incorporating refugees and IDPs is essential to present an accurate picture of demographic realities and the strain on local resources. According to figures from the state Home Department, Mizoram is currently sheltering more than 28,000 refugees from Myanmar, around 2,300 from Bangladesh, and nearly 7,000 displaced persons from Manipur.
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The first phase of the census, which began on April 1, focuses on house listing and housing-related data. A digital self-enumeration option was made available until April 15, allowing residents to submit details online.
From April 16 to May 15, officials will undertake door-to-door surveys using mobile applications under the canvasser method. Enumerators will also verify data submitted through the online portal during this period.
The second phase, scheduled for February next year, will involve detailed population enumeration, including information on age, gender, education, language, and marital status. Authorities indicated that a limited online enumeration window may also be introduced during this stage.
Officials reiterated that the inclusion of displaced populations is in line with the census objective of capturing all persons residing within a given territory, regardless of their legal or citizenship status, to ensure effective planning and allocation of resources.
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