N Biren Singh’s resignation as Manipur Chief Minister marks the end of a turbulent tenure but the challenges remain
The adage ‘better late than never’ fits perfectly in describing the resignation of Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh, who stepped down ahead of the State budget session. His resignation comes after nearly two years of ethnic violence in the northeastern state. His resignation came amid mounting pressure from his own party MLAs, and escalating ethnic tensions between the Meitei and Kuki communities. The ethnic conflict in Manipur, which began in May 2023, has resulted in the deaths of hundreds of people and the displacement of over 60,000 individuals. The violence has been primarily between the Meitei community, which constitutes the majority in the Imphal Valley, and the Kuki-Zo tribal groups residing in the hill districts. The conflict has been attributed to disputes over economic benefits and job quota. Within the State BJP unit, dissent had been brewing for months and pressure building to oust Singh. Several party MLAs from the state had reportedly approached the central leadership seeking Singh’s replacement.
The situation reached a tipping point ahead of the Budget session of the Manipur Assembly which was scheduled to begin on February 10, 2025. Dissident MLAs were prepared to support a no-confidence motion that the opposition Congress party was likely to move. Faced with the possibility of losing the government’s majority, the BJP’s central leadership withdrew its support for Singh, leading to his resignation. Singh’s resignation opens a new chapter for Manipur, but significant challenges still remain. Indeed, the people of Manipur have suffered a lot in last two years and many precious lives have been lost. In fact this resignation is late by months if not by a year. The Central Government should have ensured that the State apparatus was working well and showing results but that did not happen and despite his mishandling of the situation he continued in the office. Now the immediate task for the incoming leadership will be to restore peace and foster reconciliation between the Meitei and Kuki communities. The state administration must address the root causes of the conflict and implement inclusive policies that ensure equitable development and representation for all communities will be essential. Additionally, the new leadership must focus on rehabilitating displaced individuals and rebuilding infrastructure damaged during the violence. Ensuring justice for victims and holding perpetrators accountable will be vital steps toward healing and preventing future conflicts. The Central government’s role will be pivotal in supporting Manipur’s journey toward peace. Providing adequate resources, facilitating dialogue among stakeholders, and ensuring that security forces act impartially will be necessary to create an environment conducive to reconciliation. While N Biren Singh’s resignation marks the end of a tumultuous period in Manipur’s politics, the path to lasting peace and development will require concerted efforts from the new state leadership, the central government and the communities themselves.
