Imphal, August 6: Former Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh on Wednesday revealed that he was compelled to resign from his post due to the deteriorating law and order situation in the state, and emphasized the urgent need to restore a democratically elected government.

Speaking to reporters at the sideline of Ipudhou Marjing Expo 2025 in Heingang, Imphal East, Singh said, “We all know how President’s Rule came to be imposed in the state. There is a need for a popular government, and it should come. I have stood for popular government from the very beginning. Due to the situation, I was forced to resign.”

Highlighting the difficulties faced by people in the absence of an elected government, the BJP leader stressed that only a popular regime could truly reflect the aspirations of the citizens. “In a popular government, people and administrators can go hand in hand more comfortably,” he said.

Reflecting on his tenure, Singh pointed to various initiatives his government undertook, including eviction drives and the ‘War on Drugs’ campaign. He noted that while similar measures in Assam received wide public support, his government faced backlash in Manipur.

“When I evicted a section of encroachers along the national highway, I was called communal. The eviction drives were for the people and the state—not for me,” Singh explained.

He also addressed criticism over his anti-drug initiatives. “I am even asked why I launched a campaign to eradicate drugs,” he said, adding that such efforts were made with the state’s welfare in mind, despite their political costs.

The former CM’s statements come amid ongoing public unrest and administrative uncertainty in the state under President’s Rule. His remarks are likely to add momentum to the growing call for elections and the restoration of a civilian government in Manipur.