Yumnam Khemchand Singh Moves to Form NDA Government in Manipur
In a significant political development, Yumnam Khemchand Singh arrived in Imphal on Wednesday and met Governor Ajay Bhalla at the Lok Bhavan to stake claim to form a BJP-led NDA government in Manipur. This move comes just a day after he was elected as the leader of the BJP's Manipur legislature party in Delhi, marking a crucial step toward ending President's Rule in the state.
Key Deputies and Cabinet Positions Emerge
Accompanying Khemchand to the meeting were several prominent leaders, including two Kuki-Zo MLAs from the BJP – L M Khaute and Ngursanglur Sanate. Their presence is notable as it represents the first time since the onset of the state's conflict that legislators from the Kuki-Zo community have engaged in government processes in the state capital. This inclusion signals an effort toward broader political representation amid ongoing tensions.
Deputy Chief Ministers Expected: Sources indicate that two MLAs are likely to be sworn in as Deputy Chief Ministers. These include Nemcha Kipgen, a Kuki-Zo BJP MLA representing the Kangpokpi constituency, and Losii Dikho, an MLA from the NDA ally Naga People's Front representing the Mao constituency. Their appointments are seen as a strategic move to balance regional and ethnic interests within the new administration.
Proposed Cabinet and Key Roles
The emerging cabinet lineup suggests a blend of experience and loyalty. Govindas Konthoujam, a seven-time BJP MLA who served in the previous N Biren Singh-led cabinet and is known for his closeness to Singh, is anticipated to take on the crucial role of Home Minister. This appointment underscores the continuity of governance while navigating the state's complex security landscape.
Khemchand, a 62-year-old former cabinet minister under Biren Singh, has positioned himself as an internal critic who advocated for Singh's removal. His election as legislature party leader and subsequent claim to form the government highlight a shift in BJP's strategy in Manipur, aiming to stabilize the region after a year of President's Rule imposed on February 13 last year.
Political Context and Community Reactions
The swearing-in of the new government is expected to occur shortly, with BJP national general secretary Tarun Chugh and Northeast coordinator Sambit Patra overseeing the process as Central Observer. However, not all reactions have been positive. Some Kuki-Zo groups have expressed discontent, arguing that the political developments prioritize party interests over resolving deep-seated trust deficits between the Kuki-Zo and Meitei communities.
Ng Lun Kipgen, spokesperson of the Kangpokpi-based Committee on Tribal Unity, criticized the move, stating that appointing Kuki-Zo MLAs to plum portfolios does not address underlying issues but rather forces a reconciliation for the BJP's benefit. This sentiment reflects ongoing challenges in achieving genuine normalcy and inclusivity in Manipur's political landscape.
As Manipur moves toward reinstating an elected government, the focus remains on how Khemchand and his team will address ethnic tensions, governance gaps, and the aspirations of diverse communities in the state.
