All Manipur NDA MLAs summoned for Delhi meeting: Report
What's the story
Almost all legislators of the ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) in Manipur have flown to Delhi for a high-level meeting on Monday. The meeting's timing is noteworthy, as it comes just days before the end of President's Rule in the state on February 12. The political situation in Manipur has been tense since violence erupted on May 3, 2023, killing over 260 and displacing more than 60,000.
Political speculation
Possibility of new government formation
Erstwhile Chief Minister of Manipur and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MLA N Biren Singh hinted at the possibility of a new government formation. "All the NDA alliance partner legislators are summoned to attend a meeting scheduled on Monday," he was quoted as saying by Hindustan Times. National People's Party (NPP) legislator Janghemlung Panmei was also reported to express hope for positive outcomes from the meeting, saying they would push for good things to happen in Manipur again.
Leadership decisions
Contrasting political signals emerge
BJP state president A Sharda Devi has also reached Delhi, fueling speculation that key organizational and leadership decisions may be taken at the central level. However, media reports indicate that contrasting political signals continue to emerge from different regions of Manipur. Certain civil society organizations in Kuki-dominated areas have maintained they will not support government formation, instead demanding a separate administration.
Governance continuity
Governance is a continuous process, says Singh
On the other hand, Singh reportedly stressed that governance is a continuous process, irrespective of who is in power, asserting that he tried his best to bring change during his tenure. The meeting on Monday is significant as it involves all NDA partners unlike previous meetings which only included BJP legislators.
Ethnic tensions
Tensions remain between Meitei and Kuki communities
Tensions continue to simmer between the Meitei and Kuki communities over governance issues. While Meiteis prioritize the safe return of all internally displaced persons, Kukis demand a separate administration before other issues can be discussed. Meanwhile, on Saturday, January 31, hundreds of people, including internally displaced persons (IDPs) from different communities and tribes across Manipur, held a rally, seeking safe and timely rehabilitation and protection of the border state's territorial integrity.