Former CM N. Biren Singh hints at possibility of restoring popular government in Manipur

Amid the continuing political uncertainty in Manipur, former Chief Minister and Heingang Assembly Constituency MLA N. Biren Singh has expressed hope that a popular government may soon be reinstated in the state. He said the ground situation has improved and added that the central leadership is likely assessing the conditions to facilitate the return of an elected government.
N. Biren Singh made the remarks while addressing the media during the release of the book The Emergency Diaries at the BJP office in Imphal. The book recounts the experiences of Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the 1975 Emergency as a young RSS worker. Biren Singh stated that the occasion also serves to remember a time when democratic rights were suspended in India and described the Emergency as a dark chapter in the country’s political history.
He said Manipur has not witnessed any communal violence for the last seven to eight months, indicating a gradual return to peace and normalcy. The former Chief Minister expressed optimism that the current political vacuum could soon end, paving the way for a new government.
Biren Singh further informed that regular discussions are being held among BJP MLAs in the state and noted that the central leadership is in constant touch with state leaders. He clarified that, as a national party, the BJP cannot take unilateral decisions at the state level without the approval of the central leadership.
Responding to media queries on political blame games, Biren Singh maintained that the BJP is not engaging in any form of criticism and is instead working toward long-term peace and stability in the region. He also appreciated the continued efforts of the Union Home Minister to normalise the situation in Manipur.
On the issue of illegal immigration raised by a Mizoram minister, Biren Singh welcomed the concern and said it could lead to better coordination among northeastern states. He expressed his willingness to cooperate with neighbouring states in tackling infiltration collectively.
When asked about a possible visit by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Manipur next month, Biren Singh said there has been no official information so far.
Manipur has been under President’s Rule since February 2025 following N. Biren Singh’s resignation amid growing ethnic tensions. While the state assembly has been placed under suspended animation, its tenure remains valid until 2027, according to a notification issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs.
Meanwhile, BJP Manipur Pradesh President Adhikarimayum Sharda Devi said that efforts are underway to restore a democratically elected government in the state. She stated that consultations are being held between the BJP’s central leadership and the state unit. Referring to the Emergency of 1975, she said it remains a reminder of the dangers of authoritarian rule and added that the BJP was officially formed in 1980. She also criticised the Congress party for attempting to misrepresent BJP’s history for political advantage.
Sharda Devi further noted that the BJP is committed to serving the people and is focused on governance rather than political rivalry.