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Will Khemchand Singh Be Manipur’s Next CM? BJP MLA Awaits Party High Command’s Decision

February 10, 2025, 6:33 pm

Amid the ongoing political crisis in Manipur following Chief Minister N Biren Singh’s resignation, BJP MLA Y Khemchand Singh said on Monday that all party members would go by the call taken by the high command regarding the next leadership. Instead, he said the priority now should be the restoration of peace in the violence-hit state, especially between the Kuki and Meitei communities.

“We accept the decision taken by the high command. The problem is gone. The problem we are facing now is how to bring back normalcy. As per the system of the party, whatever the party’s high command decides, we have to accept it. All the members will accept the party’s decision,” Y Khemchand Singh told ANI when asked about Biren Singh’s successor.

NPP Withdraws Support, Criticizes Biren Singh’s Leadership

Meanwhile, Sheikh Noorul Hassan, the working president of the National People’s Party (NPP), clarified the party’s decision to withdraw support from Singh’s government. Hassan accused Singh of failing to restore peace in the state but reaffirmed NPP’s allegiance to the NDA alliance.

“NPP has withdrawn support from N Biren Singh govt. We do not believe in his leadership because he fails to restore normalcy and peace in Manipur. His resignation from the CM post is a welcome step towards restoring peace and normalcy in the state. We are a part of the NDA alliance at the Centre, we will always cooperate and work with BJP as part of NDA to bring normalcy to the state,” Sheikh Noorul Hassan told reporters.

Biren Singh’s Resignation and Political Developments

On Sunday, Chief Minister Biren Singh submitted his resignation to Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla at Raj Bhavan, stepping down nearly two years after violence erupted in Manipur. He was accompanied by BJP president A Sharda, BJP’s North East in-charge Sambit Patra, and at least 19 MLAs.

In his resignation letter, Singh expressed gratitude to the Centre for its efforts in Manipur. “It has been an honour to serve the people of Manipur so far. “I am extremely grateful to the Central government for timely actions, interventions, developmental work and implementation of various projects for safeguarding the interest of every single Manipuri,” Singh stated.

Background of Manipur’s Ethnic Violence

The ongoing conflict between the Meitei and Kuki communities escalated after a rally by the All Tribal Students Union of Manipur (ATSUM) on May 3, 2023. The rally was in response to a Manipur High Court order directing the state to consider including the Meitei community in the Scheduled Tribes list. Since then, violence has continued, making political stability and peace restoration crucial priorities for the state’s leadership.

With Biren Singh’s exit, all eyes are now on the BJP high command’s decision regarding the next chief minister and the roadmap for restoring order in Manipur.

Manipur Slams Mizo National Front Over Border Meddling

November 28, 2024, 11:15 pm

The Government of Manipur has issued a strong rebuke to the Mizo National Front (MNF) for what it terms “constant meddling in the internal affairs” of the state. This response follows the MNF’s recent call for the resignation of Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh, citing his alleged failure to address ongoing ethnic violence that has resulted in over 250 deaths since May 2023.

Manipur’s Response to MNF’s Allegations

In a press release, Manipur’s Directorate of Information and Public Relations accused the MNF, led by a Chief Minister ousted in the last State Assembly elections, of promoting “anti-national, pro-Myanmar refugee propaganda” and maintaining an “anti-Manipur stance.” The statement emphasized that the MNF has consistently opposed Indian government efforts to secure the Myanmar border to curb illegal immigration, arms trafficking, and drug smuggling—issues identified as root causes of Manipur’s challenges.

Historical Context and Accusations

The Manipur government reminded the public of the MNF’s historical secessionist movement in the former Mizo district of Assam. It attributed the current crisis in Manipur to illegal immigrants from Myanmar, whose economy, driven by illicit poppy cultivation, was disrupted by the Chief Minister’s “War on Drugs.” The government refuted claims that the crisis stemmed from any religious policy, labeling such narratives as false propaganda by the MNF and other vested interests.

Critique of MNF’s Position on Narco-Terrorism

The statement criticized the MNF for overlooking narco-terrorist funding behind the conflict involving the Kuki community. It highlighted a significant increase in the number of villages in Kuki-dominated districts since 1969, questioning the MNF’s awareness of this abnormal rise, particularly in forested areas.

Comparison of Policies on Illegal Immigration

The Manipur government noted that Mizoram has implemented measures to prevent Myanmar nationals from purchasing land, running businesses, or obtaining official documentation like Aadhaar and voter IDs without prior permission. It questioned why the MNF opposes similar efforts by Manipur to tackle illegal immigration.

Successes in the ‘War on Drugs’

The government detailed its achievements in combating drug trafficking, including the destruction of drugs worth ₹60,000 crore in the international market, seizure of vast quantities of narcotics, and eradication of 16,787 acres of illicit poppy cultivation. It noted a 60% decline in poppy cultivation between 2021 and 2023. In contrast, the statement alleged that Mizoram has become a transit route for illegal arms and drugs between India and Myanmar.

Appeal for MNF to Address Local Issues

The Manipur government urged the MNF to focus on addressing the threat of drug trafficking in Mizoram instead of making unwarranted comments on Manipur’s legally justified actions against drug trafficking. It offered assistance to Mizoram in combating drug-related issues.

Efforts to Restore Peace and Normalcy

The government outlined initiatives to restore peace, including providing food and shelter to over 60,000 people in relief camps, conducting operations to recover looted arms, and prosecuting lawbreakers. Sensitive cases have been handed over to central agencies like the NIA and CBI for impartial investigation, with a retired Supreme Court judge heading a commission of inquiry into the origins of the ethnic conflict.

Also read: Indian Army Launches Online Learning Platform ‘Eklavya’ For Training Officers

Warnings Against Secessionist Agendas

The statement warned of a larger agenda to create a Kuki-Chin nation spanning parts of Myanmar, India, and Bangladesh through illegal immigration and land grabbing, stressing that such plans would be met with strong legal action. It concluded by asserting that the Government of Manipur will not allow the fragmentation of Northeast India at the behest of foreign vested interests and that any individual or organization working towards such an agenda will face the full force of the law.

This development underscores the escalating tensions between Manipur and Mizoram’s political entities, highlighting the complex interplay of regional politics, ethnic identities, and national security concerns in India’s Northeast.

Drone Attacks ‘Act Of Terrorism’ On Civilians: Manipur Chief Minister

September 3, 2024, 11:40 am

Following a series of drone attacks over the past two days in Imphal West district, which resulted in two fatalities and several injuries, Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh has labeled the incidents as “acts of terrorism.” Singh strongly condemned the attacks and vowed decisive action against such acts of violence.

Attacks and Casualties

On Sunday, armed Kuki groups used drone attacks on Koutruk, a Meitei village in Imphal West district, resulting in the deaths of two people, including a woman, and several injuries. The village is situated near the border with the Kuki-Zomi majority Kangpokpi district. This area has been heavily impacted by ongoing conflict, experiencing frequent gunfire incidents.

The violence continued on Monday when drones were again used to drop bombs in Senjam Chirang Maning Leikai, also in Imphal West, injuring three civilians.

Chief Minister’s Response

In response to these attacks, Chief Minister Singh took to social media to denounce the violence. “Dropping of bombs on civilian population and security forces by using drones is an act of terrorism and I condemn such cowardly acts in the strongest terms,” Singh stated. He emphasized the Manipur state government’s commitment to addressing such threats and vowed to take necessary measures to combat these forms of terrorism.

Singh also called for unity among the people of Manipur, asserting, “We denounce all forms of violence, and the people of Manipur shall unite together against hate, division, and separatism.”

Investigation and Next Steps

The Chief Minister confirmed that the case would be transferred to the National Investigation Agency (NIA) for further investigation. This decision reflects the seriousness of the situation and the need for a comprehensive response to the escalating conflict between the Meitei and Kuki-Zomi communities.

Ongoing Tensions

The recent drone attacks come amidst heightened tensions between the Meitei and Kuki-Zomi groups. The ongoing conflict has exacerbated the security situation in the region, with both communities facing increased hostility and violence.

Manipur authorities are working to address the violence and restore peace in the affected areas, with heightened scrutiny and intervention from national agencies to prevent further escalation.

Lok Sabha Election 2024 Phase 1: Sound of gunfire exchange near polling booth in Manipur

April 19, 2024, 1:58 pm

Gunfire erupted near a polling station in Manipur today, as captured in a 25-second video circulating online. The footage depicts chaos and people shouting before two rapid shots are heard. A third shot follows, possibly in response to the initial gunfire. Subsequently, a series of gunshots, potentially from an automatic weapon, is heard, prompting the person filming to take cover behind a doorway. The exchange of gunfire continues for about 10 seconds before ceasing.

The location of the incident, whether in Inner Manipur or Outer Manipur constituency, remains unclear. In the 2019 election, the BJP’s Thounaojam Basanta Kumar Singh clinched victory in the Inner seat, while the Outer seat, reserved for Scheduled Tribe candidates, was won by Naga People’s Front leader Kachui Timothy Zimik, who is contesting again with the backing of the BJP’s ally, the NPF.

Manipur has grappled with sporadic violence since May last year, stemming from clashes between ethnic communities that resulted in numerous casualties and displacements. Consequently, stringent security measures have been implemented for the initial phase of the two-part elections in the state. Fifteen of Outer Manipur’s 28 Assembly segments are scheduled to vote on April 26.

To accommodate displaced voters, special polling stations have been established, with 22 in Churachandpur district and 24 in Kangpokpi, according to officials.

Expressing confidence in the electoral outcome, Chief Minister N Biren Singh remarked, “I am fully confident both Manipur seats will definitely elect a BJP government at the centre. Yes, Manipur is facing a troubled time but, in the last four-five months peace was restored and that is why we are holding an election.”

Manipur govt files FIR against members of Editors Guild, Find out the reason

September 4, 2023, 2:59 pm

Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh announced on Monday that the state administration has filed a FIR against members of the Editors Guild who are attempting to incite further conflict in the state.

According to the Manipur Chief Minister, a charge has been launched against three members: Seema Guha, Bharat Bhushan, and Sanjay Kapoor. The Editors Guild has yet to respond to the FIR filed against members of its organization.

Addressing the conference, CM Biren Singh said “I give a warning to the members of the Editors Guild, Who constituted them? if you want to do something, then do visit the spot, see the ground reality, meet the representatives of all communities and then publish what you found. Otherwise, meeting some sections only and coming to a conclusion is highly condemnable.”

“The State government has filed an FIR against the members of the Editors Guild who are trying to create more clashes in the state of Manipur,” CM added. The Editors Guild of India issued a report on its ‘Fact-Finding Mission on Media Reportage of Ethnic Violence in Manipur’ on September 2.

In its report which was posted on the Guilds social media handle on X the Guild had claimed “There are clear indications that the leadership of the state became partisan during the conflict. It should have avoided taking sides in the ethnic conflict but it failed to do its duty as a democratic government.”

On Friday Lt. Gen PC Nair DG Assam Rifles had said “Unlike in the past, Manipur is witnessing an “unprecedented” situation currently due to the ethnic clashes owing to the fact that both communities have large number of weapons putting the state in the spot like never before.”

Congress demands resignation of the Manipur CM; asks PM to break his silence

July 2, 2023, 1:20 pm

The Congress party has called for the Chief Minister N Biren Singh to step down due to the deteriorating law and order situation in Manipur. They have also raised concerns about Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s lack of response to the situation in the conflict-ridden state.

Jairam Ramesh, addressing the media on Saturday, voiced the Congress party’s demand for the prompt resignation of the Chief Minister of Manipur. He pointed out that even though Home Minister Amit Shah visited the troubled state, it did not yield any noticeable positive outcomes. “The PM is silent for the last sixty days and we are repeatedly demanding that the Prime Minister should break his silence..”, Ramesh, a senior Congress leader, said.
The CM has come under repeated attack from the opposition, particularly the Congress since violence broke out on 3 May in the BJP-ruled state.

Manipur has witnessed ethnic violence for nearly two months. Congress and some groups in the state have demanded Biren Singh’s resignation. Manipur CM N Biren Singh on Friday said he will not resign from his post “at this crucial juncture” amid the growing calls for his resignation. Amit Shah’s four-day visit to the state was followed by an all-party meeting chaired by him in June to restore peace in the state. Ethnic clashes broke out in the State nearly two months ago on 3 May after clashes erupted during a rally organised by the All Tribal Students Union (ATSU) to protest against the demand for the inclusion of Meiteis in the list of Scheduled Tribes (STs).

Manipur’s situation very chaotic, says CM Biren Singh

June 26, 2023, 4:14 pm

Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh said on Sunday that the current situation in the northeastern state is “very chaotic” and that it is impossible to predict the nature of the current phase of violence.

Singh’s remarks came after a meeting with Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Sunday, a day after the Centre convened an all-party meeting to discuss the ongoing violence that has engulfed the state ruled by the Bharatiya Janata Party since May 3.

Singh told reporters, “The immediate effort of the Union home minister Amit Shah is to restore peace and normalcy in Manipur…he has expressed concern over the changing nature of violence in the state.”

“The initial phase of violence was highly political and sensitive but we cannot say what is happening now. The situation is very chaotic,” the CM added, saying he had briefed Shah over the “evolving situation” in Manipur.

Singh stated that Shah inquired about the ongoing arson and destruction of government property. “He brought up attacks on the homes of Union Minister of State for External Affairs RK Ranjan Singh and state minister Sushindro Meitei… and impeding the movement of security forces….he has assured the central government that all possible steps will be taken to restore normalcy in Manipur.”

The Manipur chief minister also stated that he had submitted to Shah a report on the state government’s efforts to restore normalcy.

Manipur: Section 144 imposed, internet suspended as mob torches CM’s event venue ahead of his visit

April 28, 2023, 1:51 pm

On Thursday night, a mob allegedly set fire to Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh’s venue in New Lamka, Churachandpur district, ahead of his visit, prompting the district administration to issue prohibitory orders, including the suspension of internet services.

On Friday, CM Biren Singh was scheduled to open an open gym at the PT Sports Complex in New Lamka, Churachandpur District. Following the incident, the state administration issued prohibitory orders under section 144 of the CrPC, as well as an order to immediately suspend internet services throughout the district.

“A total shutdown in Charachandpur district has been called by Indigenous Tribal Leader’s Form (ITLF) from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm of April 28, 2023, and there is the likelihood of mobilization of the public for protest through social media and networking sites which could lead to escalation of public unrest and unlawful activities in Charachandpur District,” the order read.

“Requested to kindly consider curbing/suspension of internet/mobile data in Charachandpur district with immediate effect and until the situation improves,” it further read.

Manipur celebrates Republic Day at Kangla

January 26, 2023, 3:37 pm

On the occasion of the 74th Republic Day Manipur celebrated with festivities and patriotic fervor at the historic Kangla where Governor La Ganesan unfurled the Tricolour. Meanwhile, Chief Minister N Biren Singh, ministers, MLAs, and senior officials also attended the celebration. However, the ‘Guard of Honor’ was accorded to the Governor before the Republic Day celebration.

Amit Shah inaugurates 122-feet-high Marjing Polo Statue

January 6, 2023, 12:38 pm

The 122-foot-high Marjing Polo Statue at Marjing Complex in Manipur’s East Imphal has been inaugurated by Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday. In the state, Shah inaugurated and laid foundation stones for several projects including the inauguration of Churachandpur Medical College and the inaugural hoisting of 175 feet tall National flag at INA headquarters, Moirang. Earlier this week development of the Heritage Site for INA Head Quarters, Moirang was inspected by Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh.