Imphal: Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh resigned on Sunday, succumbing to mounting pressure as ethnic clashes in the northeastern Indian state continue to claim lives. The violence, which erupted nearly two years ago, has resulted in at least 250 deaths and displaced tens of thousands.
Singh, a leader of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), submitted his resignation to the state’s governor in Imphal, a day before a scheduled legislative assembly session. Reports indicate that the opposition Congress party was preparing to introduce a no-confidence motion against him.
Governor Accepts Resignation Amid Political Turmoil
The governor accepted Singh’s resignation and directed him to continue in office until alternative arrangements are made. His departure comes amid ongoing ethnic violence between the majority Meitei and minority Kuki communities, triggered by disputes over economic benefits and job quotas.
Kuki groups have long accused Singh of favoring the Meitei community and have called for his removal since the unrest began. Singh, a Meitei leader, has also faced pressure from within his own party, with BJP lawmakers periodically demanding his resignation over his handling of the crisis.
In November, the regional National People’s Party (NPP), a key BJP ally in Manipur, withdrew from the ruling coalition, citing Singh’s failure to restore stability in the state.
Blame on Border Infiltration and Myanmar Refugee Crisis
In his resignation letter, Singh expressed gratitude to the central government for its efforts in protecting Manipur’s interests. He also urged continued action to curb border infiltration and deport “illegal immigrants.”
Both Singh and the federal government have partially attributed the ongoing violence to an influx of refugees from Myanmar following the 2021 military coup there.
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Following Singh’s resignation, Manipur BJP president Sharda Devi told reporters that the chief minister had stepped down “in the interest of the people of Manipur.”
Uncertain Political Future
With Singh’s exit, Manipur faces an uncertain political landscape. As the BJP seeks to appoint a successor, tensions remain high, and the state’s fragile security situation continues to be a major concern.
