NPR enrolment to resume

By Our Reporter

SHILLONG, MAR 8: The Meghalaya Assembly was today informed that while the progress of National Population Register (NPR) Biometric enrolment in the state is around 10% of the population, the operations to enrol citizens would resume shortly.

Replying to queries during the ongoing Budget Session, General Administration Department (GAD) minister HDR Lyngdoh informed that the services of the enrolment agencies were not extended beyond December 31, 2016 by the Registrar General and Census Commissioner, India.

Stating that there has been “temporary suspension” of NPR enrolment, Lyngdoh said the exercise would shortly resume as soon as a new agency is appointed.

While seeking a clarification whether NPR was synonymous with Aadhaar enrolment, HSPDP legislator Ardent M Basaiawmoit brought to the notice of the House that there have been several complaints that NPR and Aadhaar enrolment appeared to be the same.

To this, Lyngdoh said that since Meghalaya is an NPR state, Aadhaar is directly linked to NPR enrolment.

Stating that there was opposition from public and also from the NGOs, he said that the state government has taken steps to create awareness on the issue.

The minister further claimed that awareness has led to a “better understanding” and now the public and NGOs have started accepting the enrolment process.

When HSPDP legislator KP Pangniang disagreed with his claim particularly in the West Khasi Hills, the minister assured that if necessary, further awareness would be conducted.