Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh resigned on Sunday, February 9, 2025, nearly two years after ethnic violence erupted in the northeastern state, plunging it into a prolonged crisis. His resignation comes at a crucial time as the state continues to struggle with the aftermath of the conflict, which has claimed over 250 lives and displaced thousands of residents.
The Chief Minister formally handed over his resignation to Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla at the Raj Bhavan in Imphal, in the presence of several BJP leaders and MLAs. In his resignation letter, Singh expressed deep gratitude to the central government for its support, stating, "It has been an honour to serve the people of Manipur thus far. I am extremely grateful to the central government for its timely actions, interventions, developmental work, and implementation of various projects for safeguarding the interests of every single citizen of Manipur."
Singh’s resignation follows his recent meeting with Union Home Minister Amit Shah in New Delhi, after which he returned to Manipur and decided to step down. His decision comes amid increasing political pressure, with the Congress-led opposition preparing to move a no-confidence motion against his government during the upcoming session of the Manipur Legislative Assembly, scheduled to begin on Monday, February 10.
Despite the BJP holding a strong position in the 60-member Manipur Assembly with 32 MLAs, supported by five legislators from the Naga People’s Front and six from the JD(U), concerns were rising over dissent within the party. The withdrawal of support from the National People’s Party, led by Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad Sangma, added to the uncertainty. Speculation was rife that some BJP MLAs, particularly those dissatisfied with Singh’s leadership, might have chosen to defy the party whip during a floor test, leading to a potential loss of confidence in his government.
The ethnic violence in Manipur, which began in May 2023, has been a major source of instability in the state. The conflict primarily stems from tensions between the majority Meitei community and the Kuki-Zomi tribes over issues related to land ownership, economic benefits, and job quotas. The situation escalated when protests and clashes erupted following a High Court ruling that suggested Scheduled Tribe status for the Meiteis, a move strongly opposed by the Kukis. Since then, the violence has led to multiple deaths, forced displacements, and a breakdown of law and order in several regions of the state.
Singh, a prominent Meitei leader, has been at the center of the controversy, with Kuki groups accusing him of being biased in handling the situation. Over the past two years, there have been repeated calls for his removal, both from opposition parties and from within sections of the BJP itself. Despite multiple peace talks and attempts at reconciliation, violence and tensions have persisted, prompting widespread criticism of the state government’s response.
In December 2024, Singh had issued a public apology for the prolonged unrest, acknowledging the hardships faced by the people of Manipur. He stated, "This entire year has been very unfortunate. I want to say sorry to the people of the state for what has been happening since last May. We are working tirelessly to restore peace, and I urge all communities to come together in the spirit of unity and harmony." However, the apology did little to alleviate the anger and frustration of those affected by the violence.
Singh’s resignation is expected to trigger a leadership reshuffle within the Manipur BJP, as the party looks for a suitable replacement who can navigate the state out of its current crisis. While the BJP high command has yet to announce his successor, several names are being considered for the position, including senior party leaders with experience in governance and conflict resolution.
In the meantime, Governor Bhalla has accepted Singh’s resignation and has requested him to continue in his role until alternative arrangements are made. The next few days will be crucial in determining the political future of Manipur, as the state government undergoes a significant transition amid ongoing unrest and the urgent need for lasting peace and stability.
