BJP MLAs to Meet Nadda as Party Plans Power Comeback in Manipur

Former Chief Minister N. Biren Singh has reportedly proposed Speaker Thokchom Satyabrata Singh as his replacement to lead the new BJP government.

BY PC Bureau

October 8, 2025: A decision on reinstating a popularly elected government in Manipur is expected within the next few days after  a scheduled meeting of BJP MLAs, led by former Chief Minister N. Biren Singh, with party president J.P. Nadda in Delhi on October  9.

The  MLAs met Sambit Patra, the BJP’s in-charge for Manipur, in New Delhi today.. Sources indicate that Patra conveyed the central leadership’s openness to restoring an elected government in the state, which has been under President’s Rule since February 11, 2025, due to political instability triggered by ethnic tensions and governance challenges.

N. Biren Singh, whose leadership is under scrutiny due to allegations linked to an audio tape currently being examined by the Supreme Court, is reportedly not in contention for the chief minister’s position. Instead, he has proposed Speaker Thokchom Satyabrata Singh as a candidate to lead the formation of a new government. This proposal emerged during a meeting of 27 BJP legislators held on October 7 at Manipur Bhavan in New Delhi.

However, the government formation exercise faces challenges. Seven BJP MLAs, primarily from the Kuki-Zo community, are likely to abstain from supporting the government formation exercise, reflecting the deep ethnic divisions in the state.

READ: Kuki-Zo Leaders to Meet in Shillong to Chart Course of Action

The BJP holds 32 seats in the 60-member Manipur Legislative Assembly, but the absence of these seven MLAs could complicate efforts to secure a majority. On the other hand, Naga MLAs, both within the BJP and from allied parties, are expected to back the BJP’s efforts, potentially providing crucial support.

In the Imphal Valley, prominent civil society organizations have been vocal in pressing for the restoration of an elected government, arguing that it would better address local grievances and foster stability. Similarly, several insurgent groups, which have faced intensified security operations during President’s Rule, have also expressed support for the return of a popular government, hoping it might lead to a more negotiated approach to their demands.

The final decision rests with the BJP’s central leadership, with the October 10 meeting with J.P. Nadda expected to provide further clarity on the timeline and leadership for the new government. The situation remains fluid, with ethnic and political dynamics likely to influence the outcome.

Key Party Positions in the 12th Assembly (Post-2022 Election)