End of President’s Rule
President’s Rule had been imposed in Manipur in February 2025 amid prolonged political instability and continuing ethnic tensions in the State. The revocation earlier on February 4 clears the way for the restoration of an elected government, a move that had become constitutionally necessary.
Under Article 356 of the Constitution, President’s Rule cannot be extended beyond one year without a constitutional amendment. Parliament had earlier approved a six-month extension until February 13, 2026, making the formation of a new government imperative.
BJP Stakes Claim with NDA Support
Mr. Khemchand Singh, who leads the BJP Legislature Party in Manipur, was accompanied by several party leaders and legislators when he met the Governor. Two Kuki-Zo MLAs, L.M. Khaute and Ngursanglur Sanate, were also present during the submission of the claim.
The BJP remains the single largest party in the 60-member Manipur Legislative Assembly, with 37 MLAs. This includes seven legislators from the Kuki-Zo community. The National People’s Party has six MLAs, while the Naga People’s Front has five, both of whom are part of the NDA at the national level.
Message of Peace and Development
Following his claim to form the government, Mr. Khemchand Singh expressed optimism about the road ahead. In a statement shared on social media, he said peace and development would guide the functioning of the new Council of Ministers.
He acknowledged that the political journey toward the goals of “Viksit Bharat” and “Viksit Manipur” would not be easy, but asserted that his government would remain committed to inclusive growth and stability.
Kuki-Zo Council Maintains Distance
Even as the new government prepares to take charge, political divisions persist. The Kuki-Zo Council, the apex body representing the Kuki-Zo people, reiterated its decision not to participate in the formation of the Manipur government.
The council also warned Kuki-Zo MLAs against joining the government, urging them to respect what it described as the collective will of the community. It cautioned that legislators acting unilaterally would be held responsible for any consequences.
Political Context and Challenges Ahead
Manipur has witnessed prolonged unrest and political uncertainty over the past two years, with ethnic tensions between Meitei, Kuki-Zo and Naga communities deeply affecting governance. The central government has repeatedly emphasised dialogue and reconciliation as key to restoring normalcy.
As reported earlier, efforts were made to bring legislators from different communities on a common platform to enable the formation of a stable government before constitutional deadlines expired.
Significance of the New Government
The swearing-in of Mr. Khemchand Singh is being seen as a crucial step toward political stability in Manipur. Markets, civil society groups and security agencies will closely watch how the new government addresses law and order, rehabilitation and development.
