BJP National Spokesperson and MP Dr. Sambit Patra, BJP North East Coordinator and Manipur in-charge Dr. Ajit Gopchade, Rajya Sabha MP arrived in Imphal today ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s scheduled visit to Manipur on September 13.
The two leaders were received at Bir Tikendrajit International Airport by BJP Manipur Pradesh President Adhikarimayum Sarda Devi, MLA Sapam Ranjan, and other party functionaries. A warm reception was accorded to them by state party leaders.
However, their arrival drew considerable attention as both leaders avoided media interactions despite journalists waiting at the airport to seek their comments. In the brief exchange, they only greeted the media with “Khurumjari” before leaving in their vehicles, leaving reporters without a statement.
Party sources indicated that the visit of the two central leaders could be linked to discussions on the possible formation of a popular government in the state, as well as preparations for mobilising public participation during the Prime Minister’s visit. Speculation has also grown following indications from some BJP MLAs belonging to the Kuki-Zomi community, who have reportedly expressed willingness to support such a development.
According to sources, a closed-door meeting of BJP MLAs and senior leaders was convened at the party’s state headquarters, Thambal Sanglen, later in the evening. The meeting was expected to be attended by former Chief Minister N. Biren Singh, Manipur Legislative Assembly Speaker Th. Satyabarta, and all BJP legislators. There was no confirmation on whether leaders from other parties expected to join the BJP had been invited.
The visit of the central leaders, coupled with internal party consultations, has fuelled speculation of significant political developments in Manipur in the run-up to the Prime Minister’s visit.