The future of Manipur hangs in the balance as Biren Singh pushes for his loyalists while rival factions within the BJP back Thokchom Satyabrata Singh for the top job.
BY PC Bureau
The political landscape in Manipur has entered a tumultuous phase following the resignation of Chief Minister N. Biren Singh on February 9, 2025. His departure, amid prolonged ethnic violence and internal party dissent, has set off a fierce power struggle within the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), with factions divided over the choice of his successor. At the heart of the conflict lies Biren Singh’s insistence on having his loyalists maintain control, clashing with rival factions seeking a fresh start.
Biren Singh’s Influence and Preferred Successor
Despite stepping down, Biren Singh remains a powerful figure within the BJP in Manipur. He is reportedly adamant about securing the chief ministerial position for one of his close allies. Thongam Biswajit Singh, a senior minister known for his administrative skills and long-standing association with Biren Singh, has emerged as his favored candidate. Biswajit’s Meitei support base and political experience make him a natural choice for those seeking continuity with Singh’s governance.
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Other potential candidates acceptable to Singh include Sapam Ranjan Singh and Govindas Konthoujam, both of whom played crucial roles in his administration. Their selection would ensure that Singh’s influence continues to shape the state’s political landscape.
Opposition Within BJP and Emerging Factions
However, Biren Singh’s dominance is being challenged by a faction led by Thokchom Satyabrata Singh, the Speaker of the Manipur Legislative Assembly. Satyabrata has garnered support from several BJP MLAs and Kuki legislators, positioning himself as a candidate who can bring a more inclusive approach to governance. His leadership within the assembly and ability to navigate complex political terrains have strengthened his standing within the party.
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Yumnam Khemchand Singh, the Minister for Rural Development and Panchayati Raj, is also seen as a contender. Previously considered for the Chief Minister’s post during the 2022 state elections, Khemchand’s administrative experience and relatively neutral stance could make him an acceptable compromise candidate for the party’s central leadership.
"He has resigned for the people of the state…" – A Sharda Devi, President, BJP Manipur, on Manipur CM N Biren Singh's resignation
#Manipur #ManipurCM #BirenSingh #BirenSinghResigns #BirenSinghresignation pic.twitter.com/hQ0UQfUTIg— News9 (@News9Tweets) February 9, 2025
Sharda Devi, the state president of the BJP in Manipur, has also been speculated as a possible candidate. Her role in strengthening the party’s base and navigating through turbulent times has been noteworthy. Her leadership could represent a strategic move to stabilize the party’s position in the state.
Central Leadership’s Role and Strategic Calculations
Senior BJP leader Sambit Patra’s continued presence in Manipur underscores the central leadership’s determination to resolve the factional infighting. The BJP high command faces the challenge of balancing Biren Singh’s influence, regional demands, and the need for a leader who can restore stability in the violence-hit state.
The role of four National People’s Party (NPP) MLAs and the BJP’s alliance with the Naga People’s Front (NPF) will also be critical in determining the next Chief Minister.
The leadership decision carries significant implications for Manipur’s future. Ethnic tensions remain high, and the Kuki-Zo community has voiced concerns over governance under Biren Singh’s administration. Calls for justice and separate administration from tribal groups further complicate the political equation.
Biren Singh’s insistence on retaining influence and the opposing faction’s push for change will determine not only the BJP’s leadership in the state but also its ability to address Manipur’s deep-rooted issues. As negotiations unfold, the central leadership’s decision will be pivotal in charting the state’s path toward peace, stability, and political harmony.
