Fresh Push for Democracy in Troubled Manipur
In a significant political development, 10 NDA legislators in Manipur have approached Governor Ajay Bhalla, citing the backing of 44 MLAs to demand the restoration of a popular government in the state. Amid the ongoing imposition of President’s Rule, the MLAs argue that restoring an elected government is key to stabilizing a region long marred by ethnic strife and administrative paralysis.
Their appeal comes at a time when public frustration is mounting, and Manipur—already wounded by ethnic violence and political breakdown—is desperately seeking a path to peace and progress.
Backdrop: A State Under Siege
Manipur, a northeastern state of India with a history of ethnic complexity, has been gripped by intense violence between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities since mid-2023. Amid escalating tension, breakdown in law and order, and allegations of partisanship in governance, President’s Rule was imposed on February 13, 2024, suspending the state’s elected government.
While the central government hoped this move would de-escalate tensions and bring order, critics argue that the lack of visible peace-building measures has only deepened the political and ethnic vacuum.
The Political Initiative: A Bid to Restore People’s Mandate
On May 27, 10 MLAs—primarily from the BJP, NPP, and Independents—met the Governor and formally requested the installation of a popular government, claiming the support of 44 out of 59 functional seats in the 60-member Assembly (excluding 10 Kuki-Zo MLAs, 5 Congress MLAs, and one vacant seat).
“We’ve come forward with the backing of the majority because we believe the people want their voices represented again,” said Thockchom Radheshyam Singh, one of the key initiators of the move.
The group insists that their demand is not about individual leadership, but about restoring democratic order. “We’ve left it to the Centre to decide the leader. What matters is that elected representatives, not bureaucrats, lead us through this crisis,” said MLA Sheikh Noorul Hassan.
Fissures Within the NDA: The Biren Singh Factor
Notably, the current political move excludes former Chief Minister N Biren Singh and his close allies. Their absence indicates a growing split within the NDA ranks, even as they agree on the broader goal of forming a new government.
MLA L Susindro Meitei, a known Biren Singh loyalist, dismissed the day’s developments as premature: “Staking claim to form a government should come from the party’s legislative leader. Still, we appreciate that these MLAs are bringing attention to the grievances in the state.”
This divergence reflects a power vacuum within the BJP-led alliance, where personal equations and regional aspirations are shaping the larger discourse.
All Possibilities on the Table: What Lies Ahead?
The Governor has not issued a public response yet, but constitutional protocol allows for President’s Rule to be revoked if a majority-backed government is feasible. That said, the Centre will weigh multiple factors—including public safety, ethnic sensitivities, and political stability—before taking a decision.
The absence of the Kuki-Zo legislators in this push further complicates matters. Any new government formed without inclusive representation risks worsening community distrust. Simultaneously, prolonged central control with no political mandate erodes local faith in democracy.
The Cost of Delay vs. the Hope of Renewal
Manipur stands at a precarious crossroads. The call for a popular government is a desperate bid for direction and accountability in a state fatigued by uncertainty. Yet, unless this new political formation is inclusive, neutral, and peace-driven, it may only aggravate existing divides.
For peace to prevail, political leadership must rise above factional loyalties and focus on reconciliation, justice, and grassroots healing. A people’s government, if chosen wisely and with all communities in mind, could be the bridge to restoring trust, law, and lasting peace in Manipur.
This is not just about forming a government—it’s about reclaiming the soul of Manipur through democratic resolve.
(With inputs from agencies)
