IMPHAL, Feb 7: The fate of five Janata Dal (United) MLAs, who defected to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), now rests with the Speaker of the Manipur Legislative Assembly, as he has reserved judgment on their disqualification case. The final hearing was conducted on Friday, marking the culmination of a legal battle that has been ongoing since 2022.
The five MLAs under scrutiny – Thangmeiband MLA Khumukcham Joykisan, Tipaimukh MLA Ngursanglur Sanate, Jiribam MLA Md Achab Uddin, Wangkhei MLA Thangjam Arunkumar, and Churachandpur MLA L.M. Khaute – are accused of violating the 10th Schedule of the Indian Constitution, which governs anti-defection laws. The case was originally filed by MPCC Vice President Hareshwar Goshwami, with two additional petitions from M. Dorendro and M. Surjit against MLA Kh. Joykisan.
During the hearing, the petitioner’s advocate, N. Bhupenda, expressed hope for justice, stating, “The arguments from both sides have been heard, and now it is up to the Speaker to decide whether these MLAs should be disqualified.” The Speaker has now reserved his judgment, which could trigger by-elections if the five MLAs are disqualified, potentially shifting the balance of power in the Manipur Assembly.
This legal dispute comes at a time when Manipur’s political landscape is already being tested. Chief Minister N. Biren Singh left for Delhi amid speculation of a no-confidence motion, heightening the anticipation surrounding the Speaker’s ruling. A decision in favor of disqualification would significantly impact the state’s politics, with the possibility of fresh elections altering the Assembly’s composition.
With today’s hearing marking the final stage of the case, all eyes are now on the Speaker’s decision, which will have far-reaching implications for Manipur’s governance and political stability.
