IT News
Imphal, June 29:
Speculations regarding the fate of Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh’s government have intensified amidst ongoing crisis in the state, now lingering for over 13 months. Most mainstream media outlets have been abuzz with discussions of either replacing the Chief Minister or invoking President’s rule. However, sources within Imphal Times have dismissed these reports as speculative.
In an exclusive interview with NDTV, Chief Minister N. Biren Singh addressed the rumors, stating, “Staying on as Chief Minister or resigning is not in my hands.” He emphasized his commitment to resolving the state’s challenges, deflecting concerns about his leadership stability.
Adding to the uncertainty, North East Live, a Guwahati-based TV channel, highlighted the high possibility of a leadership change in Manipur. Speculations have been fueled by recent setbacks for the BJP-led government, including losing both Lok Sabha seats to Congress candidates in the elections, previously held by the ruling BJP and its ally Naga People’s Front (NPF).
Despite these developments, the likelihood of a leadership change hinges not only on central government decisions but also on the support of MLAs. Currently, the BJP-led NDA government in Manipur enjoys the backing of 55 out of 60 members in the legislative assembly. However, challenges persist with 10 MLAs, including 7 from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), aligning with separatist factions like the Kuki narco-terrorists. Additionally, internal dissent among a few BJP MLAs aspiring to challenge Chief Minister N. Biren Singh’s leadership complicates the political landscape. But N. Biren Singh still has the number.
Reflecting on the recent Lok Sabha elections, Chief Minister N. Biren Singh acknowledged the BJP’s increased vote share but conceded electoral losses due to the prevailing crisis. “BJP’s vote percentage is not low. What we expected, we got,” he affirmed, while admitting public dissatisfaction with his government’s handling of the situation. “I know people are angry with me. We accept it. The situation is very complex. We are not fighting with an identified enemy,” he added, acknowledging the nuanced challenges faced by his administration.
Amidst these deliberations, the central leadership’s support remains crucial in determining the Chief Minister’s political future. While speculation about a leadership change persists, the decision ultimately rests with both political alignments within Manipur and the central government’s strategic considerations. The unfolding developments are closely watched as Manipur navigates through its political and governance challenges in the coming days.
