Manipur BJP MLAs Summoned to Delhi: Potential Government Formation After President's Rule

Anticipation builds as political movement indicates a potential resolution to Manipur's governmental deadlock

Imphal/Guwahati:

BJP leadership has summoned Manipur legislators to Delhi, sparking discussions about possible governmental changes in the state, which has been operating under President's rule since February.

Imphal airport witnessed significant activity Saturday morning as numerous BJP MLAs boarded flights to the national capital, suggesting the pressing nature of their summons.

Among those hastily checking in were MLAs S Kebi, L Shushindro, and Thongam Biswajit.

This flurry of activity has generated expectations regarding a potential resolution to Manipur's political impasse. Several BJP representatives expressed optimism about establishing a new government in this strategically important border state.

"Our summons to Delhi arrived yesterday. We're all proceeding to party headquarters. We anticipate positive developments. I understand Kuki MLAs have received invitations as well," stated BJP MLA Paonam Brozen.

Fellow BJP legislator Kh Ibomcha indicated that a gathering involving MLAs and party leadership is scheduled for Sunday.

Assembly Speaker Thokchom Satyabrata Singh confirmed his understanding that all legislators, including those from the Kuki community, have been invited to participate in the discussions.

Contributing to the positive outlook, BJP MLA Ushyam Deben shared his assessment that a representative government would likely be established by month-end at the latest.

MLA K Joykishan identified the formation of a democratically elected government as the primary agenda for the upcoming meeting. "How could we establish preconditions for our high command?" he remarked.

However, BJP MLA Y Khemchand adopted a more measured stance, emphasizing that peace remains his fundamental priority. "Peace constitutes my main concern. I cannot confirm whether a new administration will be formed," he stated.

Former Chief Minister N Biren Singh, while departing for Delhi, expressed optimism about the outcome.

"We shall see. I anticipate positive results for Manipur's improvement from tomorrow's scheduled meeting. I'm hopeful the central government will implement constructive decisions," he remarked.

When questioned about timing, Singh indicated that clarity would emerge only following consultations with central leadership. "Let's maintain positive expectations," he added.

According to BJP sources, Singh remains among the strongest contenders for the chief ministerial position should a new government materialize. Currently, two distinct factions have reportedly emerged within the party - one supporting Singh and another backing the Assembly Speaker.

Sources indicate that BJP MLAs Y Khemchand, K Robindro, and L Rameshor Meitei, among others, are supporting Thokchom Satyabrata Singh.

Senior party officials have remained discreet regarding the definitive agenda and expected outcomes of the Delhi discussions.

Ethnic violence between the valley-predominant Meitei community and the Kuki tribes, who maintain significant presence in certain hill regions of Manipur, erupted in May 2023 concerning various issues including land rights and political representation. The conflict has resulted in over 260 fatalities and approximately 50,000 internal displacements.