Will Manipur finally get a new, popular government after one year? The question is doing the rounds in the power corridors of the state as well as Delhi. Has the movement towards forming a new government in Manipur finally intensified?
Tuesday evening may provide the answer to the crucial question.
The BJP’s central leadership has called all NDA MLAs from Manipur to Delhi. According to sources, crucial discussions regarding the formation of a new government in the state will take place during this meeting. All NDA MLAs from Manipur were asked to make themselves available in Delhi by 2pm on Monday.
Sources say many MLAs are already camping in Delhi, while several others are currently on their way. President’s Rule in Manipur is set to expire on February 13, and experts from the region believe it is essential for the BJP to form a government now, as the situation on the ground is relatively peaceful.
The Manipur Assembly has a total strength of 60 members. At present, the BJP has 37 MLAs, while the Janata Dal (United) has one. The National People’s Party (NPP) has six MLAs, the Naga People’s Front has five, the Congress has five, the Kuki People’s Alliance (KPA) has two, and there are three Independents.
Manipur has been under President’s Rule for the past year following violent clashes between Meiteis and Kukis. Sources indicate that the Union government now feels it is the right time to form a popular government in the state.
More than 40 MLAs are reportedly camping in Delhi, and some Kuki MLAs have also arrived. It is important that all groups come together to form the government.
There are several contenders for the chief minister’s post. However, sources in the BJP high command told News18 that peaceful coexistence and unity among all groups is a prerequisite for forming the government. This time, that unity appears to be in place. There is hope that the moment has finally arrived and that, after one year, Manipur will once again have a popular government.
