Political tensions continue to rise in Manipur as the opposition Congress party firmly announced its intention to oppose the imposition of President's rule, following the resignation of Chief Minister N. Biren Singh. On February 10, 2025, Manipur Congress President Keisham Meghachandra Singh declared the party's stance through social media, highlighting, “For the people of Manipur, Congress party opposes any move to impose President's rule in Manipur now as well as the party also opposes any move to place Manipur Legislative Assembly under suspended animation now.”
This declaration reflects the Congress party's commitment to restoring a democratically elected government, which Singh emphasized is necessary for safeguarding democracy within the state.
The political upheaval began when Chief Minister N. Biren Singh submitted his resignation, triggering immediate reactions from various political figures and parties. Following Singh's resignation, Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla nullified the Assembly's scheduled budget session, originally set to commence on the same day. Instead, the Governor stated he would call for the budget session afresh after the formation of any new government.
Singh’s resignation came shortly after the National People’s Party (NPP) withdrew its support for the BJP-led government, accusing it of failing to manage the severe ethnic violence plaguing the state since May 2023. The NPP's departure reduced the governing coalition's strength, raising questions about the stability of the current administration.
Despite its weak position with only five MLAS among 60 total seats, the Congress party is taking decisive action. Meghachandra Singh announced plans to introduce a no-confidence motion against the BJP government, marking the first such attempt since violence escalated last year. “This is not just about us; it’s about the people of Manipur who demand accountability,” he stated.
The ethnic violence has been devastating, with rising tensions between various communities leaving many people affected. The situation has compelled Congress to seek legal and procedural pathways to regain political influence and advocate for peace.
The NPP, led by Meghalaya’s Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma, initially supported the Biren Singh administration; its exit was significant, as they had previously highlighted the government’s failure. Even with the loss of support from the NPP, the BJP retains plurality within the Assembly with 37 MLAS backed by the Naga People's Front (NPF) and several Independents.
It’s also worth noting the loss of NPP MLA N. Kayisii, who passed away on January 18, 2025; this development has left the party with six legislators, marking another twist to the shifting political dynamics. The intersection of grief and governance adds another layer of complexity to Manipur's current crisis.
Considering these developments, the direction of Manipur's future remains uncertain. With the Congress poised to challenge the ruling party, public and legislative reflections on state governance could pave the way for shifts long sought by various factions.
The upcoming days are set to be pivotal; as pressures mount for the ruling government to address the citizens’ demands and the simmering ethnic tensions, all eyes will be on the legislative manoeuvrings within the Assembly and the responses from the Governor.
With the ruling BJP government's seat count and the need for stability, the political climate of Manipur is poised for significant transformations, especially as elections approach.
The commitment to opposing President’s rule underlines the broader struggle for power and democratic representation, highlighting the stakes involved for the people of Manipur.
Should Congress succeed with the no-confidence motion, it may usher forth new leadership, potentially altering the socio-political terrain of the state, which has seen violent outbursts and communal strife resonate within its borders.
One thing remains clear: Manipur is at the crossroads of history, standing at the intersection of political duty and the aspiration for peace, making every move from here increasingly significant.