Imphal, Manipur (November 17): The National People's Party (NPP), led by Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad Sangma, has officially withdrawn its support from the BJP-led government in Manipur, citing Chief Minister N Biren Singh's inability to restore normalcy amid escalating tensions in the state.
In a letter addressed to BJP National President JP Nadda, Sangma criticized the handling of the law-and-order situation, highlighting the recent violence and ongoing suffering of the populace. "The Manipur State Government under Biren Singh has completely failed to resolve the crisis and restore normalcy," the letter stated, emphasizing the party's decision to withdraw support immediately.
Despite the NPP’s exit, the BJP government remains unaffected as it holds an absolute majority in the 60-member Manipur Assembly, with 37 seats compared to NPP’s 7.
Escalating Tensions in Manipur
The withdrawal comes amid a volatile situation in Manipur, where clashes between the Meitei and Kuki communities have intensified since May last year. Armed violence, curfews, and internet suspensions have gripped the state, with innocent lives lost and public order disrupted.
On Saturday, a total curfew was imposed in Imphal, and internet services were suspended for two days to curb unrest. Manipur Police assured that senior officers were actively monitoring the situation, with personnel deployed to manage the crisis.
Union Home Minister Steps In
Union Home Minister Amit Shah convened a high-level meeting on Sunday to assess the security situation in Manipur. Shah is expected to conduct a detailed review meeting on Monday to address the fragile regional stability. His involvement underscores the gravity of the situation, as he postponed planned rallies in Maharashtra to focus on the escalating crisis.
The unfolding developments further underscore the political and administrative challenges facing Manipur as tensions persist between the Meitei and Kuki communities.
