Manipur BJP MLAs summoned to Delhi amid push to end President’s rule

A high-level meeting of all Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MLAs from Manipur has been scheduled in New Delhi for December 14, signalling a potential shift in the state’s political deadlock as it continues under President’s Rule.

 

Former Chief Minister N. Biren Singh confirmed on December 12 that the central leadership had directed every BJP legislator to attend. While no formal agenda has been disclosed, he indicated that discussions on forming a new government are likely.

 

“MLAs have been called to Delhi to review the situation in Manipur. We have not been told the exact agenda, but it could involve government formation,” he said in Imphal during the 86th Nupi Lal Day observance.

 

Manipur has operated under President’s Rule since 13 February, days after Biren Singh resigned on 9 February. The state remains strained by the ethnic violence that erupted on 3 May 2023, which has so far claimed more than 260 lives and displaced over 60,000 people.

 

Speaking to India Today NE, a BJP MLA said North East coordinator Sambit Patra had contacted most legislators individually, instructing them to be present for the 5.30 pm meeting. State party president A. Sharda has also reached out and may attend.

 

Significantly, Kuki-Zo MLAs — including the seven from the BJP — have also been summoned. Their stance will be closely watched, as all 10 Kuki-Zo legislators have repeatedly insisted on “separate administration” before supporting any government formation exercise.

 

While several BJP MLAs have urged the Centre to restore an elected government, the Kuki-Zo group has refused to back any arrangement until their political demand is addressed.

 

The 60-member Assembly currently has an effective strength of 59 following the death of NPP MLA N Kayisii. The BJP holds 32 seats, though seven of its Kuki-Zo MLAs back the call for separation. Despite withdrawals of support by the NPP, JD(U), KPA and an independent MLA, the BJP still commands a majority through 43 members, including five JD(U) defectors.

 

The directive for BJP MLAs to gather in Delhi coincides with President Droupadi Murmu’s first visit to Manipur, intensifying focus on the prolonged governance vacuum and rising expectations for a return to an elected administration.