Myanmar Launches Controversial Census Amid Civil Strife

Myanmar's military government has commenced a nationwide census to compile voter lists for an election promised for next year. This move, however, takes place amid ongoing civil war and poses risks for participants. Pro-democracy groups and guerrilla fighters caution civilians against cooperating, citing fear of reprisals and surveillance by the military.

A nationwide census was launched Tuesday by Myanmar's military government, aiming to compile voter lists for an election promised for next year, even though the nation is in the grip of a civil war.

Census takers, mostly schoolteachers and local administrative workers, have started going door-to-door in Naypyitaw, escorted by soldiers and police.

The shadow National Unity Government has advised people to exercise caution, warning that those involved in data collection may face violent reprisals. Several incidents of attacks and fatalities were reported during a similar survey last year.

(With inputs from agencies.)