Manipur CM N Biren Singh resigns amid ethnic violence
The resignation comes at a time when the state is struggling to restore normalcy.
LOCAL
Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh has resigned from his post amid ongoing ethnic violence in the state. His resignation comes just before the Budget session of the Manipur Legislative Assembly. The state has been witnessing violence between the Meitei and Kuki communities since May 2023, and the situation remains tense.
Singh submitted his resignation to Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla at the Raj Bhavan on Sunday. His decision to step down followed a crucial meeting in Delhi with Union Home Minister Amit Shah and BJP National President J P Nadda. The meeting lasted for about two hours, and key BJP leaders, including Manipur BJP President A Sharda and North East Manipur in-charge Sambit Patra, were also present. At least 19 MLAs from Manipur accompanied Singh to Delhi for the discussions.
In his resignation letter, Singh expressed his gratitude to the people of Manipur for allowing him to serve as the Chief Minister. He also thanked the Central government for its support in handling the challenges faced by the state. “It has been an honour to serve the people of Manipur so far,” Singh wrote. He also acknowledged the efforts of the Centre in implementing various projects and initiatives for the welfare of the people.
However, despite resigning, reports indicate that Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla has asked Singh to continue in his role until a new government is formed. This means that Singh will remain in office for the time being while the BJP leadership decides on the next course of action.
The resignation comes at a time when the state is struggling to restore normalcy. The ethnic clashes between the Meitei and Kuki communities have resulted in widespread violence, loss of lives, and destruction of property. The conflict has created deep divisions in the state, with thousands of people being displaced from their homes.
On Saturday, just a day before his resignation, Singh had spoken about the steps taken by the state government to bring back peace. “The state government has been making all possible efforts to restore peace and to ensure that people live together peacefully as before,” he was quoted as saying by PTI.