One of the signatories warned, “We now have the support of 32 MLAs. If no positive response comes from Delhi, we may stake a claim to form the government after May 15.”
TFM Report
Twenty-one MLAs from Manipur, supported by 10 Kuki-Zo legislators, have submitted a representation to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah, demanding the immediate installation of a popular government in the state.
The signatories include 14 BJP MLAs, three of whom were elected on JD(U) tickets and later merged with the BJP, alongside three National People’s Party (NPP) MLAs, two Naga People’s Front (NPF) members, and two independents.
The representation, submitted on Tuesday, was spearheaded by Lourembam Rameshwar Meitei of the Keirao Assembly Constituency (BJP). Other prominent signatories include Paonam Brojen (Wangjing Tentha, BJP), Kh. Raghumani Singh (Uripok, BJP), T. Robindro Singh (Thanga, BJP), Y. Radheshyam Singh (Hiyanglam, BJP), Md. Achab Uddin (Jiribam, JD(U)-merged BJP), and Janghemlung Panmei (Tamenglong, NPP).
Others include Th. Radheshyam (Heirok, BJP), N. Nisikant Sapam (Independent), S. Rajen Singh (Lamshang, BJP), Kh. Loken Singh (Wangoi, NPP), J. Kumo Sha (Karong, Independent), Sheikh Noorul Hassan (Kshetrigao, NPP), Khongkham Robindro Singh (Mayang Imphal, BJP), Y. Khemchand (Singjamei, BJP), and Th. Arunkumar (Wangkhei, JD(U)-merged BJP).
Also on the list are Leishiyo Keishing (Phungyar, NPF), Kh. Joykisan Singh (Thangmeiband, JD(U)-merged BJP), S. Kebi Devi (Naoriya Pakhanglakpa, BJP), Losii Dikho (Mao, NPF), and Ram Muivah (Ukhrul, BJP).
The demand intensified following the resignation of Chief Minister N. Biren Singh on February 9 amid internal conflict among BJP legislators. Four days later, the Centre imposed President’s Rule, placing the Manipur Assembly under suspended animation.
In their representation, the MLAs acknowledged the initial public support for President’s Rule, stating, “The people of Manipur welcomed the President’s Rule imposed on 13th February, 2025, with hope and expectations. However, nearly three months later, no visible actions to restore peace and normalcy have been seen.”
The MLAs also expressed concern over growing unrest: “There is a strong apprehension among the public that violence may reoccur. Several civil society organisations have begun opposing President’s Rule and are demanding the formation of a popular government. Public rallies and street meetings are being held, where ruling MLAs are blamed for not staking claim to form a government and for the imposition of President’s Rule.”
Appealing for swift action, the representation added, “We believe that installing a popular government is the only way to restore peace and normalcy in Manipur.”
“We assure you of our full dedication and commitment to restoring peace if a popular government is reinstated,”* the MLAs wrote.
One of the signatories, speaking anonymously, warned, “We now have the support of 32 MLAs. If no positive response comes from Delhi, we may stake a claim to form the government after May 15.”