Rising Leadership Speculations: As political tensions escalate in Manipur, CM N Biren Singh faces mounting pressure from BJP legislators and Kuki MLAs demanding leadership change.
BY PC Bureau
Amid rising political unrest and speculations about a possible leadership change in Manipur’s BJP-led government, Chief Minister N Biren Singh landed in Delhi on an unscheduled visit on Wednesday nigh do9Ea meeting with Home Minister Amit Shah.
The development comes at a critical juncture as political tensions simmer in the state. The Manipur government faces intense scrutiny over its handling of ongoing ethnic violence and governance challenges.
Ministers and MLAs Called to Delhi
Adding to the speculation, Manipur’s Rural Development and Panchayati Raj Minister Yumnam Khemchand was summoned to Delhi by Amit Shah earlier this week. Speaker Th Satyabrata and several BJP ministers and MLAs have also been called for discussions, signaling a potential reshuffle within the state’s political landscape.
Before his departure, Khemchand reportedly held discussions with several BJP MLAs dissatisfied with Singh’s leadership. These lawmakers have voiced concerns over the government’s response to the prolonged crisis in Manipur and are reportedly pushing for a leadership change.
Ethnic and Political Divisions Widen
The state’s political dynamics are further complicated by sharp ethnic divisions. Kuki MLAs, including members from both the BJP and opposition parties, along with non-Kuki legislators, appear united in their opposition to Singh’s leadership. The ongoing crisis has led to mounting pressure from community leaders demanding decisive action.
Since October last year, 19 BJP MLAs, including Speaker Thokchom Satyabrata Singh and Minister Thongam Vishwajit Singh, have submitted a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, calling for Singh’s removal.
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Meetings and Leadership Discussions
Home Minister Amit Shah has been actively engaging with state leaders to stabilize the political landscape. Shah recently met Speaker Satyabrata on December 9, January 27, and is scheduled for another meeting on February 6. He has also invited MLA Th Radheshyam to Delhi for further discussions.
“Chief Minister N Biren Singh had said if a no-confidence motion is moved at the upcoming assembly session against the state government by any member, the MLA would be chased by the people and won’t be able to stay at home,”Ibobi Singh told reporters after meeting Governor Bhalla
— Adv. Siam Phaipi (@SiamPhaipi) February 4, 2025
Political observers believe these meetings aim to strategize leadership changes and ensure that the upcoming seventh session of the 12th Manipur Legislative Assembly, set to begin on February 10, proceeds without disruptions.
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Growing Pressure on Biren Singh
As dissent grows, a coalition of 10 BJP MLAs, 5 Congress MLAs, 5 JD(U) MLAs, 6 NPP MLAs, and 3 Independents is reportedly preparing to introduce a no-confidence motion during the forthcoming session. CLP leader Okram Ibobi, along with four Congress MLAs, has met with Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla, urging intervention.
Ibobi criticized Singh for allegedly issuing threats against legislators considering a no-confidence motion, warning that such remarks undermine democratic principles.
Shah’s Intervention and Next Steps
Khemchand is expected to present Amit Shah with a detailed account of the grievances among BJP MLAs, potentially including a representation calling for Singh’s replacement. Shah’s scheduled meetings and ongoing discussions are being closely monitored as they may determine the political future of Manipur.
With the Assembly session looming, all eyes are now on Amit Shah and the BJP high command to see if they can broker a solution that stabilizes the state’s volatile political situation.
