Will a Popular Government Emerge in Manipur Soon?
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Synopsis
As tensions continue in Manipur, BJP MP Maharaja Sanajaoba Leishemba expresses optimism for a popular government to form within two months. This article explores the political dynamics and challenges faced by the state, along with recent efforts by local leaders to address the ongoing ethnic crisis.
Key Takeaways
- Maharaja Sanajaoba Leishemba expresses hope for a popular government in two months.
- Political unity is essential to tackle ongoing challenges in Manipur.
- President's Rule has been in effect since February 13 due to ethnic tensions.
- Recent discussions between local leaders aim to find solutions to the unrest.
- The public is seeking action from the government to restore normalcy.
Imphal, May 11 (NationPress) The sole BJP Rajya Sabha representative from Manipur, Maharaja Sanajaoba Leishemba, expressed optimism on Sunday that a popular government would emerge in the state within the forthcoming two months.
The Rajya Sabha member called upon all political figures to join forces in confronting the challenges currently facing the state.
“I firmly believe that a popular government will be established in Manipur within the next two months. Relying solely on President’s rule will not remedy the ongoing issues. A popular government can collaborate closely with the populace to seek solutions to the current ethnic strife,” the 53-year-old parliamentarian conveyed to the media.
He acknowledged public discontent regarding the inability of elected officials to work collectively and decisively to tackle the ethnic crisis.
“Some individuals have prioritized personal ambitions over the state’s well-being and interests. The imposition of President's rule was necessitated by those who put power and self-interest above the public good,” the Rajya Sabha member remarked, refraining from naming specific leaders or MLAs.
Since February 13, Manipur has been under President's Rule, which was enacted just four days after N. Biren Singh resigned from the Chief Minister’s position.
The 60-member Manipur Assembly has been placed in a state of suspended animation following the declaration of President's Rule, with its term lasting until 2027.
Recently, BJP’s North East in-charge Sambit Patra visited Kangpokpi and Churachandpur districts, engaging with Kuki BJP MLAs Vungzagin Valte and Nemcha Kipgen, along with various Kuki-Zo and civil society groups, including the Committee on Tribal Unity (CoTU).
Kipgen was the only female Minister in the previous N. Biren Singh-led government in Manipur. Patra, a Member of Parliament from Puri Lok Sabha constituency in Odisha, also conducted private discussions with former CM Biren Singh, Manipur Assembly Speaker Thokchom Satyabrata Singh, and several other leaders and MLAs in Imphal.
Details of Patra’s discussions during his three-day visit to Manipur have not been disclosed by either Patra or the BJP.
This visit by the BJP’s North East in-charge came shortly after 21 Manipur MLAs appealed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah to reinstate a popular government in the state.
The letters were submitted separately to the Prime Minister's Office and the Ministry of Home Affairs on April 29.
As per an MLA, the majority of the 21 legislators who signed the letters are affiliated with the BJP, while others belong to the National People's Party (NPP), Naga People's Front (NPF), and two independent legislators.
The letter conveyed that while the people of Manipur welcomed President's Rule with hope and expectations, they have yet to see any tangible actions aimed at restoring peace and normalcy in the state.
In efforts to address the two-year-long ethnic conflict, the initial tripartite meeting between officials from the Ministry of Home Affairs and representatives from the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities took place in New Delhi on April 5.
Point of View
The situation in Manipur demands urgent attention. The challenges faced by the state highlight the necessity for political leaders to prioritize collective welfare over personal ambitions. A popular government could pave the way for sustainable solutions to the ongoing ethnic conflicts, fostering stability and peace in the region.
NationPress
08/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current political situation in Manipur?
Manipur is under President's Rule since February 13, with calls for a popular government to address ongoing ethnic tensions.
Who is Maharaja Sanajaoba Leishemba?
He is the sole BJP Rajya Sabha member from Manipur, advocating for a popular government to resolve state issues.
What do the MLAs want from the central government?
They have urged Prime Minister Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah to reinstate a popular government for better governance.
What has been the public response to President's Rule?
While initially welcomed with hope, the public is now concerned about the lack of visible actions towards peace and normalcy.
What efforts are being made to resolve ethnic conflicts?
A tripartite meeting was held with officials and community representatives to address the two-year-long ethnic strife.
