BJP names Tarun Chugh as Manipur observer ahead of leadership decision

The BJP Parliamentary Board on February 2 appointed party national general secretary Tarun Chugh as central observer for the election of the legislature party leader in Manipur, a step that signals renewed efforts to form a government in the state.

The decision follows the arrival of NDA MLAs from Manipur in the national capital after they were summoned by the BJP’s central leadership. Discussions are expected to focus on government formation, with the current spell of President’s Rule set to end next week.

Confirming the appointment, party national general secretary Arun Singh said, “The BJP Parliamentary Board has appointed Tarun Chugh, National General Secretary, as Central Observer for the election of the Legislature Party Leader in Manipur.”

Manipur has been under President’s Rule since February 13, 2025, after months of ethnic violence between Meitei and Kuki communities disrupted normal governance. Central rule was imposed days after the BJP-led state government headed by Biren Singh resigned on February 9.

The appointment of a central observer is seen as a procedural move required before electing a legislature party leader, a prerequisite for staking claim to form the government.