Can Ex-CM Biren Singh Restore Normalcy in Manipur?

Imphal, June 11 (NationPress) Former Chief Minister of Manipur N. Biren Singh announced on Wednesday that he, along with BJP's Rajya Sabha member from the state, Maharaja Sanajaoba Leishemba, met with Union Home Minister Amit Shah in New Delhi. They urged his intervention to bring back peace in the state.

"We informed him (HM Shah) regarding the ongoing situation in Manipur and requested the Home Minister to implement measures aimed at restoring normalcy in the region," Biren Singh stated to the press after arriving back in Imphal from New Delhi.

The former Chief Minister emphasized that the citizens of Manipur desire a democratically elected government.

He highlighted the issue of illegal immigrants from neighboring regions who are residing unlawfully in Manipur, stating that this is a critical factor in addressing the state’s ethnic tensions.

Biren Singh, along with the Rajya Sabha member, traveled to New Delhi on June 9 to brief central leaders about the current circumstances in the state.

"I want to urge everyone to recognize that Manipur is undergoing a significant period; it is essential for all to act with caution and responsibility regarding the state’s affairs," he told the media at Imphal airport.

Calling for peace, Biren Singh urged the population to collaborate and avoid any acts of violence and detrimental behavior.

Earlier, on May 27, Biren Singh had a meeting with Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla to discuss how to restore peace and address other critical issues affecting the state.

A senior official disclosed that Biren Singh, who stepped down as Chief Minister on February 9, just days before the implementation of President’s Rule in the strife-torn state, appealed to Bhalla for immediate actions to tackle pressing matters, including the issue of illegal immigrants.

Leishemba had previously expressed optimism that a popular government could be established within a couple of months, urging all political figures to unite in confronting the challenges faced by the state.

"President's Rule alone cannot resolve the existing problems. A popular government can work more effectively alongside the people to find solutions to the ongoing ethnic crisis," he emphasized to the media.

BJP’s North East in-charge Sambit Patra also visited the Kangpokpi and Churachandpur districts last month, engaging with Kuki BJP MLAs and various civil society organizations, including the Committee on Tribal Unity (CoTU). Kipgen was the only female Minister in Biren Singh's administration.

Following this, Patra convened with Biren Singh and other leaders in Imphal.

The 60-member Manipur Assembly, which has been under suspended animation since the promulgation of President's Rule on February 13, maintains a tenure until 2027.