Source TOI
NEW DELHI — In a decisive move to restore democratic governance in the strife-torn state of Manipur, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Tuesday elected senior leader Yumnam Khemchand Singh as its legislature party leader. The decision, finalized during a high-level meeting of BJP MLAs in the national capital, paves the way for Singh to take oath as the next Chief Minister of Manipur.
The state has been under President’s Rule since February 13, 2025, following a period of intense ethnic unrest and the subsequent resignation of former Chief Minister N. Biren Singh. With the constitutional deadline for central rule set to expire next week, the BJP leadership moved swiftly to install a “popular government” to navigate the state’s complex path toward reconciliation.
A Transition Toward Stability
The selection of Khemchand Singh, a two-time MLA from the Singjamei constituency and a former Speaker of the Manipur Assembly, is being viewed as a strategic attempt by the BJP to present a “bridge-building” leadership.
Diverse Support: Sources indicate that Khemchand is seen as a moderate voice capable of garnering support across different ethnic communities.
Administrative Depth: Having served as a Cabinet Minister for Rural Development, Panchayati Raj, and Education, his experience is expected to be vital in rebuilding state infrastructure.
Gender and Community Representation: In a historic first for the state, Nemcha Kipgen, a prominent Kuki leader, is being tipped as a frontrunner for the post of Deputy Chief Minister, signaling a power-sharing intent between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities.
Political Composition in the Assembly
The BJP holds a comfortable majority in the 60-member assembly, which has been in suspended animation for the past year.
Party Seats
BJP 37
NPP (National People’s Party) 6
NPF (Naga People’s Front) 5
Congress 5
Others/Independents 7
The NDA alliance collectively commands a significant majority to ensure a stable floor test.
The Challenges Ahead
While the restoration of an elected government is a major milestone, the new administration faces an uphill battle. The ethnic divide that sparked the crisis in 2023 remains a sensitive issue.
“It is a positive step that we are finally returning to a popular government. Under the guidance of the Centre and the leadership of Yumnam Khemchand, we are confident of finding a lasting solution to the state’s challenges,” said BJP MLA Thokchom Radheshyam Singh following the meeting.
The Union Home Ministry has also concurrently initiated talks with various insurgent groups under the Suspension of Operations (SoO) pact to ensure the transition remains peaceful.
Next Steps: The NDA legislature party is expected to meet tonight to formally endorse Singh’s leadership.
