BJP Selects Yumnam Khemchand Singh as Manipur's Next Chief Minister
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has officially chosen Yumnam Khemchand Singh as its legislature party leader in Manipur, paving the way for him to become the state's next chief minister. This crucial decision was made during a meeting of BJP MLAs from Manipur held in Delhi on Tuesday, just days before President's rule in the state is scheduled to end.
Potential for Historic Woman Deputy Chief Minister
In a significant development, sources indicate that Manipur may also see the appointment of a woman deputy chief minister. Among the leading contenders for this position is Nemcha Kipgen, a senior Kuki leader and former minister. This move could mark a historic moment in Manipur's political landscape, bringing greater gender representation to the state's leadership.
Who is Yumnam Khemchand Singh?
Yumnam Khemchand Singh is a seasoned politician with a notable track record in Manipur's governance. He first gained widespread attention on December 8 last year when he became the first Meitei MLA to visit relief camps sheltering internally displaced persons from the Kuki community in Ukhrul's Litan and Chassad areas of Kamjong district. During this visit, he actively engaged with displaced families, listening to their concerns and demonstrating a commitment to bridging community divides.
Singh's political career includes serving as the Speaker of the Manipur Legislative Assembly from 2017 to 2022. In 2022, he was inducted into the second N Biren Singh-led government as a cabinet minister, where he handled key portfolios such as:
- Municipal Administration and Housing Development (MAHUD)
- Rural Development and Panchayati Raj
- Education
Central Observer and Meeting Details
Prior to the leadership decision, the BJP parliamentary board appointed Tarun Chugh as the central observer for the election of the Manipur BJP legislature party leader on Monday. All 37 BJP MLAs from Manipur were summoned to Delhi for the meeting, which was initially scheduled for Monday evening but postponed to Tuesday afternoon following the announcement of the central observer.
Consultation with NDA Partners
Former Manipur chief minister N Biren Singh confirmed that all National Democratic Alliance (NDA) partners in the state were invited to participate in the discussions held in the national capital. He expressed hope for a positive outcome, emphasizing that governance is a continuous process and efforts are underway to improve the situation in Manipur.
Background of President's Rule in Manipur
President's rule was imposed in Manipur on February 13, 2025, following N Biren Singh's resignation as chief minister last year. This period of central rule came after months of intermittent violence stemming from ethnic tensions between the Kuki-Zo and Meitei communities. Parliament extended President's rule for another six months in August last year to address the ongoing challenges.
Extended Investigation into Ethnic Violence
In related developments, the Union Home Ministry has extended the tenure of the three-member Commission of Inquiry investigating the ethnic violence in Manipur. Originally formed on June 4, 2023, the panel now has until May 20, 2026, to submit its findings, reflecting the complexity and sensitivity of the issues at hand.
The leadership transition in Manipur comes at a critical juncture, with the new government expected to focus on restoring stability, promoting reconciliation between communities, and addressing the humanitarian concerns that have persisted during the period of unrest.
