Imphal: In a significant political development, Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh tendered his resignation to Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla at the Raj Bhawan in Imphal this evening, February 9, at around 5:20 pm. The resignation comes amid growing political uncertainty, including buzz over a no-confidence motion and a potential floor test by the opposition Congress party.
Resignation and Key Highlights
According to sources, CM Biren Singh submitted his resignation letter to the Governor, marking the end of his tenure. In his resignation letter, Singh expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve the people of Manipur and highlighted his government’s achievements. He also made several requests to the Central government to ensure the continuity of key initiatives.
Excerpts from the resignation letter read
“I, Nongthombam Biren Singh, Chief Minister of Manipur, am submitting my resignation herewith. It has been an honor to serve the people of Manipur thus far. I am extremely grateful to the Central government for timely actions, interventions, developmental work, and implementation of various projects for safeguarding the interest of every single Manipuri.”
Singh also outlined critical priorities for the state, including:
1. Maintaining the territorial integrity of Manipur, which boasts a rich and diverse civilizational history spanning thousands of years.
2. Cracking down on border infiltration** and formulating policies for the deportation of illegal immigrants.
3. Continuing the fight against drugs and narco-terrorism.
4. implementing stringent mechanisms for the Free Movement Regime (FMR) with biometric enforcement.
5. Expediting the construction of a time-bound and faster border, which is already underway.
Reliable reports suggest that CM Singh recommended the imposition of an “animated suspension of the Assembly,” though further details on this matter remain unclear.
Political Developments and Delhi Visits
The resignation follows a series of high-profile meetings and visits to Delhi by CM Biren Singh and other state leaders. Earlier today, Singh met Union Home Minister Amit Shah in the national capital to discuss a range of issues, including the security situation in Manipur.
On Saturday, February 8, Singh left for Delhi in a chartered flight, though the purpose of his visit was not officially disclosed. This visit came just days after three senior state ministers and four BJP MLAs also rushed to Delhi on a chartered flight on February 5. The ministers included PWD Minister Govindas Konthouam, Forest and Environment Minister Thongam Biswajit, and Consumer Affairs Minister L Susindro Meitei.
Sources indicate that the meetings in Delhi were likely focused on addressing the political crisis in Manipur, including the possibility of a no-confidence motion and the broader security challenges facing the state.
Reactions and Next Steps
Following the resignation, BJP MP Sambit Patra, along with state ministers and MLAs, arrived at the Raj Bhawan to meet the Governor. The political landscape in Manipur remains tense, with the opposition Congress party pushing for a floor test to determine the majority in the Assembly.
The resignation of CM Biren Singh marks a pivotal moment in Manipur’s political history, raising questions about the future leadership of the state and the BJP’s strategy to maintain stability.
Background and Context
Manipur has been grappling with a range of challenges, including border security issues, drug trafficking, and internal conflicts. The resignation of CM Biren Singh underscores the complexities of governance in the state and the pressures faced by the ruling BJP government.
As the political drama unfolds, all eyes are now on the Governor’s next steps, including the potential appointment of a new Chief Minister or the imposition of President’s Rule if a stable government cannot be formed.
