Manipur CM N Biren Singh resigns, submits letter to governor
What's the story
Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh resigned from his post on Sunday amid ongoing unrest and ethnic conflict in the state for nearly two years. He submitted his resignation letter to Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla at the Raj Bhavan in Imphal. The resignation comes amid ongoing political developments and internal party discussions within the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).
Political developments
Singh's resignation follows meeting with Union Home Minister
Earlier in the day, Singh had met Union Home Minister Amit Shah in New Delhi. After the meeting, he returned to Manipur and was joined by BJP MP Sambit Patra, state ministers, and MLAs to meet the governor. In his resignation letter, Singh thanked the central government for its "timely actions...developmental work and implementation of various projects for safeguarding the interest of every single Manipuri."
Future focus
Singh outlines key priorities for central government
Singh also listed key priorities for the central government to continue focusing on in his resignation letter. These include maintaining Manipur's territorial integrity, cracking down on border infiltration, and formulating a policy for deporting illegal immigrants. He also stressed on continuing the fight against drugs and narco-terrorism and ensuring strict implementation of the revised Free Movement Regime with biometric monitoring.
Political maneuver
Resignation precedes planned no-confidence motion
Notably, the resignation comes ahead of an upcoming assembly session where the Congress planned to move a no-confidence motion against Singh. The BJP has 32 seats in Manipur's 60-member Assembly, along with the support of five Naga People's Front legislators and six from JD(U). Despite losing support from ally Conrad Sangma's National People's Party, the BJP continues to remain in majority.
Unrest background
Ethnic violence and political unrest in Manipur
Ethnic violence between the Meitei people and Kuki-Zo tribal community has marred Manipur since May 2023. The conflict has claimed over 250 lives and displaced some 60,000 people. Singh had earlier assured efforts to restore peace in the state. The governor is now expected to decide on the next course of action soon as the seventh session of the 12th Manipur Legislative Assembly is set to begin on Monday (February 10).