Intense Deliberations Unfold in Manipur: Pivotal Leader Selection After CM Biren Singh’s Resignation

Imphal, February 10 (IANS): Political dynamics in Manipur have shifted dramatically following the resignation of Chief Minister N. Biren Singh. This development has set off a flurry of discussions within the ruling BJP as the party seeks a new leader for its legislature. On Monday, BJP’s northeast in-charge, Sambit Patra, engaged in extensive consultations with ministers, MLAs, and BJP allies to gather opinions ahead of the selection of Singh’s successor.

Key contenders emerging for the chief ministership are Thokchom Satyabrata Singh, Assembly Speaker, and Yumnam Khemchand Singh, Minister for Municipal Administrations, Housing and Urban Development. Both hail from the Meitei community, which constitutes approximately 53% of Manipur’s population, residing primarily in Imphal Valley. Significantly, the BJP aims to appoint a leader who can foster unity between the majority Meiteis and the tribal communities, including the Kuki-Zo-Hmar and Nagas, who make up over 40% of the population and inhabit the hill districts.

The backdrop to this political maneuvering is the ethnic tensions that have plagued Manipur, particularly between the Meiteis and Kuki-Zo-Hmar, which escalated two years ago and severely impacted the state. Amidst these challenges, Biren Singh submitted his resignation to Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla on Sunday, just before an essential Assembly session scheduled for Monday. However, the Governor invalidated the session hours after Singh’s resignation.

Biren Singh’s resignation occurred following meetings with central BJP leaders, including Union Home Minister Amit Shah and party President J.P. Nadda, in Delhi. Despite his reluctance, Singh was directed to resign, aligning with the central leadership’s strategy amid threats from the Opposition Congress to introduce a no-confidence motion against the BJP government. The Governor has asked Singh to remain as caretaker Chief Minister until the party finalizes new leadership. The latest developments underscore the ongoing political recalibration in Manipur.

Original Source: https://www.morungexpress.com/hectic-parleys-on-in-manipur-to-choose-leader-a-day-after-cm-biren-singh-quits
Category : North-East
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Publish Date: 2025-02-10 14:40:00