Why Did 21 MLAs Urge PM and HM to Reinstate Government in Manipur?
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Synopsis
In a bold move, 21 MLAs from Manipur have reached out to the Prime Minister and Union Home Minister, bypassing the state Governor. This pivotal act raises questions about political responsibility and the people's desire for a new government. As the state remains under President's Rule, the call for change resonates strongly among the citizens.
Key Takeaways
- 21 MLAs from Manipur urged reinstatement of a government.
- They bypassed the state Governor in their appeal.
- Manipur has been under President's Rule since February 13.
- Citizens are calling for a new alternative in governance.
- Concerns about potential violence have been raised.
Imphal, April 30 (NationPress) The Opposition Congress criticized 21 MLAs from Manipur for circumventing the state Governor by addressing letters to the Prime Minister and Union Home Minister, requesting the reinstatement of a popular government in the state.
The President of the Manipur state Congress, Keisham Meghachandra Singh, stated that these 21 MLAs should have approached Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla with their request. However, they opted to contact Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Amit Shah instead, advocating for a reinstatement of governance.
Singh, also a member of the Manipur Legislative Assembly, pointed out that the group of 21 MLAs, affiliated with the BJP and its coalition partners—National People’s Party (NPP), Naga People’s Front (NPF), Janata Dal (United), and two Independent legislators—comprises part of a 60-member assembly in Manipur.
“These legislators, who ought to have approached Raj Bhavan in Imphal to assert their claim for forming a new government, chose to bypass the Governor’s office. Instead, they focused their appeals towards the Prime Minister and the Union Home Minister.
“Currently, the state is under President’s Rule. Their actions indicate a lack of seriousness regarding the Governor's role in forming a new government in Manipur. The will of the people cannot be manipulated for political gain,” the Congress leader expressed on his social media platform.
He emphasized that the citizens of Manipur desire change. “The people are seeking a new alternative, and we must respect this shift towards a better future.”
Since February 13, Manipur has been under President’s Rule, following the resignation of N. Biren Singh from his position as Chief Minister.
The suspended 60-member Assembly of Manipur is in a state of dormancy since the imposition of President’s Rule, with its tenure extending to 2027.
The MLAs’ correspondence to the Prime Minister and the Union Home Minister, which has been obtained by IANS, reveals that the public of Manipur welcomed President’s Rule with optimism; however, they have yet to witness substantial actions aimed at restoring peace and normalcy.
The letter highlighted, “There is growing concern among citizens about the potential for renewed violence. Numerous Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) have openly criticized the President's Rule, calling for the establishment of a popular government.
“These organisations have initiated public demonstrations, corner meetings, and have been rallying the populace, holding ruling MLAs accountable for not pursuing a claim to form a government and for the imposition of President’s Rule in Manipur.
In their letter dated April 29, the MLAs asserted that establishing a popular government is essential for restoring peace and normalcy in Manipur.
“We pledge our full commitment to fostering peace and normalcy in our state following the establishment of a popular government,” the letter stated.
Following the imposition of President’s Rule on February 13, this marks the first significant request to the Centre for reinstating the state government.
To address the ongoing ethnic tensions, the first tripartite meeting between officials from the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) and representatives from the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities took place in New Delhi on April 5.
Point of View
It is crucial for the political landscape to reflect the will of the people. The call from the 21 MLAs for a reinstatement of government indicates an urgent need for political accountability and responsiveness. The citizens deserve a government that prioritizes their needs and aspirations, especially in times of unrest. This situation requires careful navigation to ensure stability and peace in the region.
NationPress
08/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the 21 MLAs to bypass the Governor?
The 21 MLAs, feeling that a new government is necessary for restoring peace in Manipur, chose to contact the Prime Minister and Union Home Minister directly, believing this approach would expedite the reinstatement of a popular government.
What is the current political status of Manipur?
Manipur has been under President’s Rule since February 13, following the resignation of Chief Minister N. Biren Singh. The 60-member assembly is currently in suspended animation.
How do citizens feel about President's Rule?
Many citizens initially welcomed President's Rule with hope but are now expressing concerns about the lack of action for peace and normalcy.
What are Civil Society Organisations saying?
Civil Society Organisations have publicly criticized the imposition of President's Rule, demanding the establishment of a popular government and expressing fears of potential violence.
What is the next step for the MLAs?
The MLAs have pledged to work diligently towards reinstating a popular government, ensuring it addresses the needs and concerns of the citizens of Manipur.
