Manipur NDA Leaders Head to Delhi for Crucial Meeting Amid Government Formation Speculation
In a significant political development, over 35 NDA MLAs and party leaders from Manipur have headed to New Delhi after being summoned by the central leadership for a crucial meeting. This move has ignited widespread speculation about the possible reinstatement of a popular government in the state, which has been under President's rule for nearly a year.
Summons and Travel Details
The NDA legislators and leaders were instructed to arrive in New Delhi by Monday afternoon, with sources indicating that the meeting is scheduled to take place either on Monday or Tuesday. The delegation departed from Imphal on Sunday, marking a pivotal moment as Manipur approaches the one-year anniversary of President's rule next week.
Key Figures in the Delegation
Prominent figures among the attendees include:
- Former Manipur chief minister N Biren Singh
- Manipur assembly speaker Th Satyabrata
- BJP Manipur president A Sharda Devi
- National People’s Party (NPP) state unit president Lorho S Pfoze
- Naga People’s Front (NPF) state unit president Awangbow Newmai
At Imphal airport, Singh addressed media queries, confirming that all NDA MLAs have been called for the meeting. He expressed optimism, stating, "Since the President’s rule is set to complete one year, we are hopeful that a positive outcome regarding government formation will emerge." Similarly, Devi voiced confidence in forming a government soon, noting that the summoning of all NDA MLAs is a positive sign.
Party Responses and Optimism
Newmai of the NPF confirmed that all legislators from his party have been asked to attend the Delhi meeting, adding that he has informed all members. Several BJP legislators have also shared their optimism about the potential reinstatement of a popular government in Manipur. Reliable sources suggest that Kuki-Zo MLAs are likely to be present at the meeting, indicating a broad-based discussion.
Historical Context and Opposition Criticism
This meeting follows a significant gathering in December last year, where at least 34 BJP MLAs from Manipur convened at the party's national headquarters in New Delhi. That meeting marked the first joint interaction in over two and a half years since communal violence erupted in the state in May 2023. Meanwhile, the opposition Congress has been critical of the BJP's inability to form a government despite having a majority, demanding fresh polls to resolve the political impasse.
Background of President's Rule
Manipur has been under President's rule since February 13 last year, after Singh resigned from the chief ministerial post on February 9. The ongoing political uncertainty has heightened anticipation for this Delhi meeting, as stakeholders and observers alike await potential breakthroughs in government formation.
