The National Register of Citizens (NRC) is a register intended to identify genuine Indian citizens and distinguish them from illegal migrants residing in the country.
The concept of NRC originated from concerns regarding illegal migration, particularly in Assam. The first NRC was prepared in 1951 following the national census. Over time, demands for updating the register gained momentum due to demographic and migration-related concerns in certain regions.
The most significant NRC exercise took place in Assam under the supervision of the Supreme Court of India. The final list was published in 2019 after a large-scale verification process involving millions of residents.
NRC became a major political and constitutional topic because of discussions regarding citizenship documentation, migration, identity, and administrative processes. Different political parties and social groups expressed varying views on its implementation and scope.
As of 2026, a nationwide NRC has not been implemented. The subject continues to be discussed in policy, legal, and political circles whenever issues related to citizenship, migration, and population management arise.
Sources of Information: Google, Online News Portals