KKN Gurugram Desk | Manipur, a state in northeastern India, is currently embroiled in a political crisis as the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) claims to have enough support to form a new government, despite the ongoing violence between the Kuki and Meitei communities. The situation remains tense, with the region under President’s Rule since February 2025. The latest political development, as reported on May 27, 2025, indicates that 10 BJP and allied legislators have met with the state’s Governor, Ajay Kumar Bhalla, claiming the support of 44 MLAs to form the next government in Manipur.

The political tension in the state has escalated after the resignation of the then-Chief Minister N. Biren Singh on February 9, 2025. Singh’s resignation came under increasing pressure after over a year of unresolved violence that claimed more than 300 lives and displaced 70,000 people. Now, as BJP legislators are making a claim for government formation, questions about the state’s future political stability continue to rise.

BJP Legislators Meet Governor, Claim Support of 44 MLAs for New Government

On Wednesday, May 27, 2025, BJP legislator Thokchom Radheshyam led a delegation of 10 legislators, which included 8 from BJP, 1 from the National People’s Party (NPP), and 1 Independent, to meet Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla. During their meeting, they presented their case for forming a new government, claiming that they have the support of 44 MLAs, which includes members from the ruling alliance.

Radheshyam, after meeting the Governor, told the press, “Excluding Congress, we have the support of 44 MLAs, and there is no one opposing the formation of a new government in the state. The Speaker of the Assembly, Satyabrata, has already met with 44 MLAs.”

In response, the Manipur Legislative Assembly Speaker, Satyabrata, left for Delhi to consult the central leadership, and a final decision on government formation is expected soon. With a total of 60 assembly seats, the magic number to form a majority in the Manipur Assembly is 31, which BJP claims to have surpassed with their alliances.

Impact of Violence on the Political Situation in Manipur

Despite the political developments, the state remains embroiled in violent conflicts that have affected the daily lives of its residents. Kuki-Meitei ethnic violence, which began in May 2023, has led to ongoing unrest. The violence, marked by rape, murder, and public humiliation, continues to affect the lives of thousands of citizens.

With over 1,500 people injured and more than 6,000 FIRs filed, the situation remains volatile. The ongoing ethnic tensions between the Meitei community (the majority in the valley) and the Kuki tribal community (primarily settled in the hill districts) have caused widespread displacement, and many still live in camps due to the unrest.

Resignation of N. Biren Singh and the Imposition of President’s Rule

On February 9, 2025, N. Biren Singh, who had been the Chief Minister of Manipur since 2017, resigned under immense pressure. His administration faced criticism for its failure to prevent or control the widespread violence, which began in May 2023. His resignation marked a turning point in the state’s governance and led to the imposition of President’s Rule on February 13, 2025.

The central government took control of the administration, citing the unrest in the state and the inability of the local leadership to restore peace. In the face of increasing casualties and loss of property, the resignation of Singh and the imposition of President’s Rule were seen as an acknowledgment of the government’s failure to curb the violence.

The Role of the Opposition and National Politics in Manipur

While the BJP claims to have the majority support in the Manipur Assembly, the opposition Congress and other local parties have been vocal in demanding greater accountability from the central government. Rahul Gandhi, the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi for not addressing the violence in the state sooner. He questioned the government’s inaction despite the death toll and widespread destruction caused by the ongoing ethnic clashes.

Gandhi, in his statements, urged the Prime Minister to visit Manipur and hear the grievances of the people. He also called for a detailed plan to restore peace and stability in the region. Congress’s criticism centers around the perceived failure of both the local and central government to manage the violence effectively.

Ethnic Violence and Its Long-Term Impact on Manipur’s Politics

The Kuki-Meitei conflict has deeply affected the state’s political landscape, with ethnic tensions making governance a highly sensitive issue. The violence has left a permanent mark on the socio-political environment, complicating efforts to form a stable government.

In addition to the BJP-led government’s troubles, local tribal organizations have voiced concerns about the future of indigenous communities and the need for stronger protection of their rights. These issues are likely to continue shaping the discourse in the coming years, especially as elections approach.

The Future of Manipur: Will the New Government Bring Stability?

With 44 MLAs reportedly supporting the BJP in forming a new government, the NDA (National Democratic Alliance) appears poised to take charge once again. However, the political instability and the unresolved violence mean that the future remains uncertain.

Despite the BJP’s claim of majority support, it remains to be seen whether they will be able to maintain a stable government in the face of ongoing ethnic violence. Will the new government be able to bridge the gap between the conflicting communities and restore peace in the region?

Manipur’s current crisis is emblematic of the complexities facing India’s northeastern states. The BJP’s move to form a new government, despite the ongoing ethnic violence, reflects the delicate balance of political maneuvering and security concerns. While President’s Rule has temporarily provided a respite, the region’s long-term stability hinges on effective governance, community reconciliation, and the restoration of peace.

The decision on the formation of the new government will undoubtedly shape the future of the Kuki-Meitei conflict and impact the state’s overall political and social climate. As Manipur moves towards the formation of a new government, all eyes are on the central leadership and its ability to navigate the difficult political terrain.