No New Government in Manipur Yet: Reconciliation Over Power, Says BJP Sources

Manipur remains under President’s Rule as efforts focus on healing rift between Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities

Imphal/Delhi – The BJP has decided against forming a new government in Manipur for now, with party sources confirming that reconciliation between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities remains the central government’s top priority.

Despite speculation about a new government formation by June 15, the President's Rule in Manipur will continue, BJP insiders said. The state has been grappling with ethnic violence since May 2023, which has claimed over 300 lives and displaced thousands.
BJP MLAs Urged Immediate Governance, But Centre Waits

On April 30, a group of 21 MLAs—including 14 from the BJP—had appealed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah, requesting the formation of an elected government to stabilize the region.

Manipur has been under President’s Rule since February 13, following the resignation of Chief Minister N. Biren Singh on February 9. The decision came after growing criticism over his inability to control the escalating violence.
Biren Singh Meets Amit Shah, Says Centre Supports Popular Govt

Speaking after a meeting with Home Minister Amit Shah in Delhi, former CM Biren Singh confirmed the Centre’s intent to form a popular government in Manipur. Singh said the final decision would follow a thorough review of the situation.
BJP MLAs Reached Consensus Without Biren Singh

On May 30, 27 BJP MLAs held a closed-door meeting to discuss government formation. Interestingly, both Biren Singh and ex-Speaker Satyavrat Singh were excluded. The MLAs reportedly agreed to "set aside personal ambitions" to focus on governance.

However, seven BJP MLAs from the Kuki-Zo community were absent, signaling persisting divides within the party’s state unit.
BJP Holds Majority in Assembly, But Unity Lacking

The Manipur Assembly has 60 seats, with one currently vacant. The BJP-led NDA controls 44 MLAs, giving it a clear majority. This includes 32 Meitei, 3 Manipuri Muslims, and 9 Naga legislators. The opposition, mainly Congress, consists of 5 Meitei MLAs. The Kuki community holds 10 seats, including 7 BJP MLAs.
Manipur Violence: Over 300 Killed, 70,000 Displaced

Ethnic clashes between Meiteis and Kukis, which began on May 3, 2023, have devastated the state. Over 300 people have died, more than 1,500 injured, and nearly 70,000 displaced. Over 6,000 FIRs have been registered to date.
Rahul Gandhi Slams PM Modi, Urges Visit to Manipur

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has criticized Prime Minister Modi for not visiting Manipur or taking timely action. He called Biren Singh’s resignation a result of public outrage, a Supreme Court probe, and pressure from the Congress-led opposition.

In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Gandhi demanded the PM “listen to the people of Manipur, offer a healing roadmap, and restore peace immediately.”