Ten Manipur MLAs Urge Governor to Expedite Formation of Popular Government

Ten Manipur MLAs Urge Governor to Expedite Formation of Popular Government

Imphal, May 28, 2025 — In a major political development, ten MLAs from Manipur met with the Governor of Manipur, Ajay Kumar Bhalla, at Raj Bhavan, Imphal today. The MLAs, representing various political parties, submitted a memorandum urging the Governor to expedite the formation of a popular government in the state.

According to an official press release issued by Raj Bhavan, the Governor and the MLAs discussed key issues, including the law and order situation, the current political instability, and the need to initiate a peace process based on mutual understanding. Strengthening security arrangements in the state was also high on the agenda.

After the meeting, BJP MLA Thokchom Radheshyam told media persons that 44 sitting MLAs — from different parties and including independent legislators — are prepared for the formation of a new government. “We have communicated this to the Governor and requested him to expedite the process. However, the final decision rests with the BJP’s Central leadership,” he said.

President’s Rule Background

The state of Manipur has been under President’s Rule since February 2025, when President Droupadi Murmu, on the advice of the Union Cabinet, dissolved the state assembly due to the worsening political and security crisis. The imposition came under Article 356 of the Constitution, following months of ethnic violence, political defections, and administrative collapse.

The past year has seen recurring violence between the Meitei and Kuki communities, leading to hundreds of deaths, displacement of thousands, destruction of homes, and a deepening humanitarian crisis. Armed groups, ethnic militias, and sporadic clashes have severely tested the capacity of security forces.

Despite deployment of additional central forces, curfews, internet shutdowns, and peace appeals, the situation has remained tense. Several rounds of peace talks facilitated by the central government and civil society have struggled to make headway.

Current Scenario

As of now, Manipur remains under the direct rule of the Governor, with the assembly in suspended animation. The lack of an elected government has drawn criticism from various quarters, including opposition parties and local leaders, who argue that only a popular government can effectively address the complex socio-political issues and restore normalcy.

With the MLAs signaling readiness to form a government, all eyes are now on the BJP’s central leadership in Delhi. Will they endorse a new coalition or prefer to continue President’s Rule until fresh elections are called? The coming weeks are likely to be crucial in determining the political future of Manipur.

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