Could BJP MLAs Catalyze Early Government Formation in Manipur?
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Synopsis
Can the recent meetings between BJP MLAs and central leaders pave the way for a new government in Manipur? With President's Rule in place for eight months, the hope for a popular government is growing among local leaders, aiming to restore stability and trust among the people.
Key Takeaways
- Five BJP MLAs express optimism for a new government.
- Meetings with central leaders indicate a commitment to restore democracy.
- Public demand for a popular government is growing.
- President’s Rule was imposed due to ethnic violence.
- Future discussions are crucial for political stability.
Imphal, Oct 11 (NationPress) Five BJP MLAs, who returned to Imphal on Saturday following discussions with central leaders in New Delhi, voiced cautious optimism regarding the prompt establishment of a popular government in Manipur, which has been under President’s Rule for the past eight months.
A total of 26 BJP MLAs from Manipur traveled to Delhi last week to meet with the party's central leadership, advocating for the swift formation of a government. While five MLAs have returned, the majority remain in the capital.
Among the returning MLAs are former Chief Minister N. Biren Singh, Manipur Assembly Speaker Satyabrata Singh, and former ministers Thongam Biswajit Singh, Sapam Ranjan Singh, Heikham Dingo, Yumkham Khemchand, Konthoujam Govindas, and Karam Shyam.
The legislators conducted meetings in Delhi with BJP's North-East in-charge and Lok Sabha MP Sambit Patra, along with National General Secretary B.L. Santhosh.
According to MLA Karam Shyam, both Patra and Santhosh conveyed a positive disposition towards reinstating an elected government. He noted that recent dialogues showed a visible concern and commitment from the central leadership.
“Previously, discussions rarely touched on restoring a popular government. However, this time, both Sambit Patra and B.L. Santhosh demonstrated clear interest. We are optimistic that a government will be established soon,” stated Karam Shyam.
Former Minister Sapam Ranjan Singh mentioned that the delegation's primary goal was to inform central leaders about the political and security conditions in Manipur and advocate for the swift reinstatement of a government. “We emphasized the significance of a popular government to ensure stability and public confidence. The discussions were encouraging, and we anticipate a positive outcome shortly,” he remarked.
While no specific timeline was provided for the new government's formation, the legislators expressed confidence that a stable and inclusive administration would be established soon.
BJP legislator Thounaojam Shyamkumar previously indicated that the people of Manipur desire a popular government. “The current situation in the state is relatively normal. Establishing a popular government would facilitate better management of the circumstances and promote developmental and welfare initiatives for the benefit of all citizens,” he told the media.
The state previously had a BJP-led coalition government under former Chief Minister N. Biren Singh before President’s Rule was imposed on February 13 of this year.
Biren Singh resigned from his position on February 9, just days before President’s Rule was enacted due to ongoing ethnic violence that erupted on May 3, 2023.
The 60-member Manipur Assembly, now under suspended animation following the imposition of President’s Rule, is set to serve until 2027.
Additionally, Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla recently made a trip to New Delhi, where he met with Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Vice-President C. P. Radhakrishnan at the Vice-President’s Enclave.
Senior officials, including Chief Secretary Puneet Kumar Goel and Commissioner-cum-Secretary (Home) N. Ashok Kumar, have also visited the national capital recently, although the purpose of their visit remains undisclosed.
Following the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha's passage of statutory resolutions, President’s Rule in Manipur has been extended for another six months effective from August 13, 2025.
Prior to this extension, former Chief Minister Biren Singh, along with several MLAs and party leaders, attempted to persuade central leaders in August to establish a popular government, but their efforts were unsuccessful.
Point of View
The discussions initiated by the BJP MLAs represent a significant step towards stabilizing Manipur's political environment. The central leadership's willingness to engage in dialogue showcases a commitment to restoring democratic processes. However, the challenges remain substantial, and the focus must now be on ensuring that the outcomes align with the aspirations of the people.
NationPress
12/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current political status of Manipur?
Manipur is currently under President’s Rule, which has been in effect for eight months following prolonged ethnic violence.
Who are the key BJP leaders involved in the discussions?
Key leaders include former Chief Minister N. Biren Singh, Assembly Speaker Satyabrata Singh, and several former ministers.
What was the outcome of the BJP MLAs' meeting in New Delhi?
The MLAs expressed cautious optimism regarding the early formation of a popular government, with assurances from central leaders.
When was President’s Rule imposed in Manipur?
President’s Rule was imposed on February 13, 2023, following escalating ethnic violence.
What are the hopes of the BJP MLAs concerning government formation?
The MLAs hope that a stable and inclusive government will be established soon to restore public trust and ensure stability.
