Around two dozen Manipur BJP MLAs unite to push for ‘popular government'

In a decisive move amid Manipur’s prolonged political impasse, 23 BJP legislators convened on Friday to chart a path forward for the conflict-scarred state, resolving to "put aside personal ambitions" and work towards the formation of a popular government. The move comes as Manipur remains under President’s Rule, with the Assembly in suspended animation since February 13.

Noticeably absent from the meeting were former Chief Minister N Biren Singh and Assembly Speaker Thokchom Satyabrata Singh — two pivotal figures in Manipur’s BJP leadership. The gathering, however, included MLAs from both camps: those who once stood by Biren Singh and those who had rebelled against him before his resignation on February 9.

“The people of Manipur have waited long enough,” the legislators said in a joint statement. “In unity and with selflessness, we are committed to the formation of a popular government that prioritizes healing, inclusivity, and lasting peace.”

The BJP currently holds 37 of the 60 seats in the Manipur Assembly. Seven of those MLAs —members of the Kuki-Zo community — were not present at the Friday meeting, reflecting ongoing ethnic divides. The political stalemate has persisted alongside a devastating ethnic conflict between Meiteis and Kuki-Zo communities that has claimed over 250 lives and displaced tens of thousands since May 2023.

Friday’s statement emphasized the urgency of launching "inclusive dialogue mechanisms" and proposed the establishment of a neutral platform to foster trust and consensus between Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities. The MLAs also suggested approaching the Governor and BJP’s central leadership to appoint a “neutral peace envoy or a panel of eminent persons,” including voices from inside and outside Manipur.

The statement further underscored the need for grassroots-level, inter-community engagement and called for the recovery of looted weapons from both hill and valley regions.

This internal show of unity comes just two days after 10 NDA MLAs claimed to have the backing of 44 legislators and met with Governor Ajay Bhalla, expressing readiness to form a government. The latest developments suggest growing momentum within the state BJP to re-establish civilian governance and pivot toward reconciliation.

As Manipur continues to navigate one of the most turbulent periods in its modern history, the coming days will reveal whether this newfound unity among BJP MLAs can translate into durable peace—and a functioning government.