Key Points:
- President’s rule imposed in Manipur after Chief Minister N. Biren Singh’s resignation.
- BJP struggles to decide on a new leader despite multiple discussions.
- Central leadership expected to resolve the impasse; constitutional concerns raised.
- Congress criticizes BJP’s handling of the situation, warning of sidelined state issues.
New Delhi: In a significant political development, the central government on Thursday imposed President’s rule in Manipur, marking a critical juncture for the northeastern state. The decision came just four days after N. Biren Singh stepped down as Chief Minister, leaving the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led state government in disarray. Despite several rounds of discussions among party leaders, the BJP has yet to finalize a successor, deepening the political uncertainty.
The leadership vacuum has triggered concerns of a potential constitutional crisis, as the ruling party remains locked in deliberations. BJP Northeast in-charge Sambit Patra has been actively engaged in meetings with party MLAs and state officials but has yet to break the deadlock.
Leadership Impasse: Central Leadership to Decide
Patra has met with Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla twice over the past two days to assess the situation. On February 11, he held discussions with Bhalla alongside BJP state unit president A Sharda Devi. He followed up with another meeting on Wednesday, signaling the urgency of resolving the crisis. Additionally, Patra convened discussions with key BJP leaders, including Consumer Affairs Minister L. Susindro and MLA Karam Shyam.
Karam Shyam sought to downplay fears of a constitutional crisis, stating that the central leadership is working closely with state MLAs to find a resolution. However, when asked about the potential announcement of a new Chief Minister, Shyam refused to comment, adding to speculation about internal disagreements within the party.
Opposition Criticism and Constitutional Concerns
The Congress party has taken aim at the BJP’s handling of the situation. Congress MLA Thokchom Lokeshwar questioned Patra’s intentions during his visit to Manipur, accusing him of delaying critical decisions. “His visit appears aimed at avoiding an assembly session rather than resolving leadership issues,” Lokeshwar remarked. He criticized Patra for failing to take decisive action in appointing a new Chief Minister.
Experts have warned that if the BJP continues to delay staking its claim to form a government, Manipur could face a constitutional crisis. The six-month period between two sessions of the state assembly is nearing its expiry, adding further pressure on the ruling party to act swiftly.
What Lies Ahead for Manipur?
As political uncertainty looms large over Manipur, all eyes are on the BJP’s central leadership to resolve this impasse. The imposition of President’s rule underscores the gravity of the situation and raises questions about governance and accountability in the state. Whether or not a new leader will emerge soon remains uncertain, but experts agree that swift action is imperative to restore stability in Manipur.
