Imphal, October 11: Several BJP MLAs who had been in New Delhi lobbying for the restoration of a popular government in Manipur returned to Imphal today, expressing optimism that their efforts would soon bear fruit.

Among those arriving at Imphal International Airport were MLAs Karam Shyam, Sapam Ranjan Singh, Heikham Dingo, Konthoujam Govindas, and Khumukcham Joykishan. The legislators stated that the party’s central leadership had shown a positive intent towards reinstating an elected government in the state, which has been under President’s Rule since earlier this year.

Speaking to the media, Karam Shyam said the latest discussions reflected “visible concern and commitment” from central leaders, unlike previous meetings. “Earlier, there was little mention of reinstating a popular government. But this time, BJP North East in-charge Sambit Patra and party general secretary B.L. Santosh expressed clear interest in the matter. We are hopeful that a popular government will be formed soon,” he said.

Sapam Ranjan Singh added that the delegation’s primary aim was to brief central leaders on the political and security situation in Manipur and press for an early restoration of an elected government. “We highlighted the necessity of installing a popular government to ensure stability and public trust. The discussions were positive, and we expect a favourable outcome soon,” he noted.

Around 25 BJP MLAs had been in Delhi in recent days, seeking an audience with the party’s top leadership. On October 10, a six-member delegation led by Manipur Legislative Assembly Speaker Th. Satyabrata Singh, former Chief Minister N. Biren Singh, and former ministers Thongam Biswajit, Yumkham Khemchand, Konthoujam Govindas, and Kh. Ibomcha met BJP general secretary B.L. Santosh at his residence.

According to a statement from Kh. Ibomcha, the delegation apprised central leaders of Manipur’s political and security challenges and stressed the urgency of expediting the peace process while installing an inclusive, popularly elected government.

Earlier, on October 8, BJP MLAs convened at Manipur Bhavan in New Delhi, attended by BJP North East Coordinator and Manipur in-charge Sambit Patra. During the meeting, Patra reportedly assured the legislators that the Centre was committed to restoring a popular government soon and that the current President’s Rule would not be extended.

With several MLAs back in Imphal and others expected to follow shortly, the BJP’s legislators remain cautiously optimistic that Manipur could soon witness the reinstatement of an elected government after months of political uncertainty.