Manipur NDA and BJP MLAs Rush to Delhi Amid Speculation Over Government Formation

Imphal: Political activity in Manipur has intensified as more than 20 BJP and allied party MLAs left for Delhi on Sunday. The move has sparked fresh speculation about the formation of a popular government in the state.

BJP State Chief Also Heads to Delhi
Leaders from the BJP, National People’s Party (NPP), and Naga People’s Front (NPF) departed from Imphal airport following an urgent call from the party’s central leadership. Among those traveling is Manipur BJP President Akharimayum Sharda Devi. Reports indicate that a meeting in Delhi is expected to take place on 2 February.

Before leaving for Delhi, Akharimayum Sharda Devi stated that all NDA MLAs had been summoned. She expressed confidence that a popular government would be formed. The visit comes as the current period of President’s Rule in Manipur is set to end on 12 February. Former Chief Minister N. Biren Singh also expressed optimism, noting that all NDA partner MLAs had been called for the meeting. A previous meeting of BJP MLAs had already been held.

Biren Singh: ‘I Tried My Best to Improve Conditions’
When asked whether the situation would have been different had he remained in office, former Chief Minister N. Biren Singh said that governance is a continuous process. “I tried my best to bring positive changes in Manipur,” he said, adding that significant improvements had been made in both the hills and the valley. Several MLAs said they had not yet received details about the proposed meeting’s agenda.

Meeting Likely Monday Evening
Lamsang MLA S. Rajen Singh indicated that government formation was possible. He said the central leadership would select a leader after assessing the state’s situation. The meeting is expected to take place Monday evening. MLA H. Dingo said they were asked to reach Delhi immediately, but the agenda had not been disclosed. Khurai MLA L. Susindro added that no formal information regarding the meeting had been shared. Other BJP and NDA MLAs are also expected to travel to Delhi.

Over 260 People Killed in Ethnic Violence
President’s Rule was imposed in Manipur in February 2025 following ethnic violence. The state assembly, whose term runs until 2027, remains inactive. The violence between Meitei and Kuki groups began in May 2023. So far, over 260 people have been killed, and thousands have been displaced from their homes.