Imphal: In a pivotal move toward stability, Manipur has installed a new BJP-led government under Chief Minister Khemchand Singh after 12 months under President’s Rule. This carefully crafted coalition incorporates representatives from major ethnic groups, reflecting the central leadership’s strategy to foster enduring peace amid lingering ethnic tensions.
The unrest traces back to May 2023, when clashes between Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities erupted over demands for Scheduled Tribe status and land rights. Over 250 lives were lost, thousands displaced and development stalled as violence gripped the state. President’s Rule, imposed in February 2025 after the assembly’s suspension, aimed to restore order but left deep scars.
CM Khemchand Singh, taking oath in this critical juncture, struck an inclusive tone: “Manipur is home to 36 diverse communities. Our collective effort will create lasting peace”. His mandate underscores trust-building as priority one, shattered by years of division. Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed the lineup on X: “I am confident they will work diligently towards furthering development and prosperity for my sisters and brothers of Manipur”. Deputy Chief Minister Losii Dikho from the Naga People’s Front (NPF), a key BJP ally, reinforced reconciliation. “Inclusiveness guides us. We’ll reach out to fulfill public aspirations”, he said.
Kuki-Zo Backlash:
Nemcha Kipgen’s (Kuki Zo MLA who took oath as the Deputy Chief Minister) role sparked ire from Kuki-Zo outfits advocating a separate Union Territory. She swore in via video from Delhi’s Manipur Bhawan. The Kuki-Zo Council cautioned its 10 MLAs against participation, deeming it perilous. Defying threats, LM Khaute and Ngursanglur Senate joined the ceremony—their first Imphal appearance in over two years in the Meitei heartland. Addressing armed group warnings, Dikho was firm: “Law will take its course”.
Bolstering numbers, four parties pledged unconditional aid: NPP (six MLAs, led by Meghalaya CM Conrad Sangma, who withdrew support in November 2024 over ex-CM Biren Singh’s crisis handling), NPF (five), JD(U) (one) and two independents. This ensures a comfortable majority. CM Singh wasted no time, chairing a cabinet session at his new bungalow that evening. “This launches collective decision-making”, his office announced.
The assembly reconvened on Febrauary 5, Thursday for Singh’s majority test—routine given the NDA strength. Yet, the real battle lies ahead: mending ethnic rifts for sustainable calm. Manipur trails neighbours like Nagaland and Mizoram in infrastructure, education and jobs after 2.5 years of paralysis. The government must accelerate projects—roads, schools, healthcare—while deploying dialogue forums and security to prevent flare-ups. But Success of the new popular government carries immense hope and scrutiny for the state devastated by ethnic violence for almost 3 years.
