SIR in Manipur is a pathway to exclusion

The article critically analyzes the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in Manipur, arguing that its implementation amidst ongoing ethnic conflict is leading to the exclusion and disenfranchisement of the Kuki-Zo community. It highlights specific vulnerabilities for Kuki-Zo people, including displacement, loss of identity documents, unique naming systems, and the lack of Sixth Schedule status. The author criticizes the Election Commission of India (ECI) and government for proceeding with SIR under these conditions, linking it to broader narratives of 'illegal migrants' and potential statelessness, and calls for a fairer, more sensitive process.