Manipur: Security heightened in Imphal after resignation of CM Biren Singh

In the wake of Chief Minister N. Biren Singh's resignation on February 9, Imphal, the capital of Manipur, has witnessed a significant increase in security measures to maintain law and order. 

The resignation comes amid ongoing ethnic tensions between the Meitei and Kuki communities, which have led to over 250 fatalities and displaced thousands since May 2023.

Following the resignation, authorities have deployed substantial numbers of police and security personnel throughout Imphal to prevent any potential outbreaks of violence. 

Despite the heightened security, the city remains calm, with no immediate reports of disturbances or protests.

Meanwhile, the resignation has elicited varied responses from political figures. 

Congress MP Kiran Kumar Chamala commented on the development, and said, "After so many months, the resignation has come into existence now. They realized that the Congress is bringing a privilege motion against the government and ministers in the Manipur assembly, so he resigned on his own. But the issue does not end here. The opposition, especially the Congress party, wants justice to be done to the people of Manipur."

Also Read: BJP MP Dilip Saikia on Manipur CM’s exit: "His decision, party will decide the future course"

BJP MP from Darrang-Udalguri, Assam, Dilip Saikia on February 9 responded to the resignation of Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh, stating that he had received the information but emphasized that it was Singh’s personal decision. 

Speaking on the matter, Saikia noted that discussions regarding the development would be held within the party and the cabinet before determining the next course of action concerning Manipur. 

N. Biren Singh, a member of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), submitted his resignation to the state's governor, Ajay Kumar Bhalla, in Imphal. 

This move came a day before a scheduled legislative assembly session, where the opposition Congress party was expected to introduce a no-confidence motion against Singh. 

As the state navigates this leadership transition, security forces remain on high alert to prevent any escalation of violence. 

The central government has not yet announced a successor, and discussions are ongoing within the BJP to identify a suitable candidate to assume the role of Chief Minister later today.