In a dramatic political development, Meghalaya Chief Minister and National People’s Party (NPP) chief Conrad Sangma announced that his party might reconsider its decision to withdraw support from the N. Biren Singh-led government in Manipur—provided the Chief Minister is replaced. This statement follows NPP’s withdrawal of support, citing dissatisfaction with the handling of the ongoing ethnic conflict in the state.
“It is specific to the individual, Biren Singh,” Sangma stated during the Shillong Literary Festival on Monday. “If we see a change in leadership and observe positive steps toward resolving the crisis, we are willing to collaborate again to ensure peace and normalcy in Manipur. However, the situation remains uncertain.”
The NPP, with its seven MLAs in the 60-member Manipur Assembly, had formally withdrawn support through a letter to BJP President JP Nadda. In the letter, Sangma criticized Biren Singh’s leadership for its failure to bring stability and resolve the ethnic tensions between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities, which have plagued the state since May 2023.
Trust Deficit in the System
Sangma elaborated on the reasons for his party’s discontent, pointing to the lack of proactive measures by the central government to bridge the trust gap in Manipur.
“I have been in discussions with leaders from the Centre and BJP, urging them to implement confidence-building measures to restore trust among the people. Unfortunately, this trust deficit remains unaddressed, which has stalled meaningful progress,” Sangma said. “Over the past week, we witnessed a further deterioration of the situation, and the suffering of the people compelled us to take this step.”
The ongoing ethnic conflict in Manipur has led to significant political turbulence, with alliances shifting. Despite the NPP’s withdrawal, the BJP-led government retains its majority with 37 MLAs. In the 2022 Assembly elections, BJP won 32 seats, which was later bolstered by five defectors from Janata Dal (United). However, ten Kuki-Zo MLAs, including seven from the BJP, have distanced themselves from the government since the conflict began but have not officially resigned.
NPP Withdraws, NPF Stays Committed
Amid the turmoil, the Naga People’s Front (NPF), another ally of the BJP in Manipur, reaffirmed its support for the government. “We remain committed to cooperating in resolving the conflict and supporting the government,” an NPF spokesperson said on Monday.
The NPP’s withdrawal follows the exit of the Kuki People’s Alliance (KPA) in August 2023. The KPA, which holds two seats, had earlier severed ties with the BJP-led government over its handling of the ethnic clashes.
What Lies Ahead?
While the NPP’s decision does not immediately threaten Biren Singh’s government, it adds to the growing calls for leadership change. Sangma’s insistence on replacing Singh underscores the need for stronger and more inclusive governance in Manipur.
“If the leadership change occurs and there’s a clear roadmap to bring peace, we will gladly offer our support again,” Sangma reiterated. For now, the political future of Manipur hinges on the BJP’s next moves and whether it can address the grievances of its allies amid the state’s deepening crisis.