Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh resigned on Sunday, nearly two years after ethnic violence erupted in the north-eastern state. The resignation comes at a time when the BJP-led government faces mounting pressure, a potential no-confidence motion, and a floor test initiated by the Congress-led Opposition.
Biren Singh Submits Resignation to Governor
In a significant political development, Chief Minister N Biren Singh handed over his resignation letter to Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla at the Raj Bhavan, accompanied by other BJP leaders and MLAs.
“It has been an honour to serve the people of Manipur thus far. I am extremely grateful to the central government for timely actions, interventions, developmental work, and implementation of various projects for safeguarding the interests of every single Manipur,” Singh stated in his resignation letter.
Political Landscape in Manipur Assembly
Biren Singh’s resignation followed his meeting with Union Home Minister Amit Shah in New Delhi, after which he returned to Manipur. The BJP currently holds 32 seats in the 60-member Manipur Assembly, receiving additional backing from five MLAs of the Naga People’s Front and six from the JD(U).
Despite the National People’s Party (NPP), led by Conrad Sangma, withdrawing its support, the BJP maintains a comfortable majority. However, speculation arose that certain MLAs pushing for a leadership change might defy the party whip in the event of a floor test.
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The Congress holds five seats in the Manipur Assembly, while the NPP has seven legislators. Additionally, there are three Independent MLAs and two members representing the Kuki People’s Alliance. The upcoming 7th session of the 12th Manipur Legislative Assembly is scheduled to commence on Monday, February 10.
Ethnic Violence and Government Scrutiny
Manipur has been grappling with ethnic violence since May 2023, leading to the deaths of over 250 people and displacing thousands. The BJP government has faced criticism over its handling of the ongoing crisis.
Just a day before resigning, Biren Singh reiterated the state government’s commitment to restoring peace and stability in the region. “The state government has been making all possible efforts to restore peace and to ensure that people live together peacefully as before,” Singh asserted.
Impact of Biren Singh’s Resignation
Biren Singh’s resignation marks a crucial moment in Manipur’s political landscape, potentially altering the power dynamics in the state. With the Congress and Opposition parties pressing for accountability, the political future of Manipur remains uncertain.
As the state heads into a critical phase, all eyes are on the BJP’s next move and the possible emergence of new leadership. The upcoming Assembly session will likely shape the direction of Manipur’s governance in the coming months.
