IMPHAL, Feb 5: Speculation has intensified in Manipur’s political circles following Chief Minister N. Biren Singh’s sudden departure to Delhi this afternoon. This move comes just days after a meeting between several BJP-elected leaders, including Speaker Th. Satyabrata and Minister Yumnam Khemchand, with Union Home Minister Amit Shah.
Chief Minister Singh was seen leaving Imphal International Airport on Wednesday, with sources indicating that his visit is crucial, as it includes scheduled meetings, particularly with Union Home Minister Amit Shah. The trip is widely seen as a response to growing internal dissent within the BJP and dissatisfaction among some of its MLAs regarding Singh’s leadership. Reports have surfaced of unhappiness within the BJP legislators related to his handling of long-standing ethnic conflicts and governance challenges.
Adding to the political drama, rumors are circulating about potential defections from the ruling coalition. There is talk of coordination between dissident BJP members and legislators from opposition parties, which could further pressure the government.
Meanwhile, the Speaker’s tribunal in Manipur is set to hear an anti-defection case involving five JD(U) MLAs who shifted their allegiance to the BJP shortly after the 2022 Assembly elections, adding a legal challenge to the already turbulent political environment.
The political movements have been accelerating in recent days, with multiple key ministers and MLAs from Manipur also making visits to Delhi. These visits have fueled anticipation ahead of the upcoming Assembly session, scheduled to begin on February 10.