MUMBAI: Several social organisations that represent women, queer and 'trans' persons Tuesday appealed to the

government to abandon its plan to implement National Population Register (NPR), terming it the first step towards

(NRC). They stressed the need to separate the

process from NPR.

The signatories include Adivasi Ekta Parishad, AIDWA, Annapurna Parivar, Awaaz E Niswaan, Bebaak Collective, Bombay Catholic Sabha, Forum Against Oppression of Women, LABIA and Stree Mukti Sangathana among other

from all parts of Maharashtra, especially Sangli.

They pointed out that adivasis, ragpickers, sex workers, trans communities, slum dwellers, homeless people, people in relief, rehabilitation and redevelopment, workers, children living on the streets and other marginalized segments are at risk of exclusion.

Queer youths often live away from their families which do not accept them, and will find it difficult to prove parentage. Apart from this, tribals and mentally challenged persons can be alienated.

The letter adds that all citizens are exposed to fraud and danger by the data collected through NPR.

The state government is yet to issue a notification to implement NPR. There have been differences between the ruling allies over the implementation of CAA and NPR. CM Uddhav Thackeray said on Sunday that a committee of ministers will be formed to study the problems with NPR and then a decision will be taken. This was seen a softening offer stand by Thackeray who had backed NPR after his meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi.