IT News
Imphal, Mar 19:
Chief Minister N. Biren Singh finds himself under mounting pressure from central BJP leaders to contest the forthcoming 18th Lok Sabha Election from Inner Manipur. Reliable sources have indicated that despite the Chief Minister’s preference for a younger candidate, the BJP’s central leadership is adamant about fielding N. Biren Singh for the parliamentary seat.
As the BJP gears up for the election, currently engaged in formulating its manifesto and soliciting public feedback, speculations abound regarding potential contenders. Chief Minister Biren Singh has reportedly proposed other leaders such as RK Imo or Rajya Sabha MP Leishemba Sanajaoba for consideration.
The speculation surrounding the central leadership’s inclination to nominate CM Biren comes amidst escalating demands from the Kuki-Zo community for his removal from the chief ministerial position. The repercussions of such a move on Chief Minister Biren’s political trajectory remain contingent upon various factors including community sentiments, his party’s stance, and decisions taken by the central leadership. The issuance of a Lok Sabha ticket to him could profoundly impact his career trajectory, contingent upon unfolding events and the prevailing political landscape in the state.
Should Chief Minister Biren secure the Lok Sabha ticket, it could herald significant political realignments in Manipur. His candidacy holds the potential to reconfigure internal party dynamics and exert influence over governance in the state, depending on the choice of his successor. Furthermore, his nomination would serve as a litmus test for his popularity among the valley population, especially amid the persisting ethnic tensions between the Meitei and Kuki communities, as the BJP’s popularity wanes amidst ongoing strife.
Meanwhile, the Congress party is deliberating on granting the LS election ticket to Akoijam Bimol, leaving other hopefuls like Hareshwar Goshwami, Tilotama, and Bhupenda Meitei awaiting their opportunity. This strategic move by the Congress leadership underscores Bimol’s increasing popularity, attributed to his vocal criticisms of the current regime amidst the prevailing violence.