The headquarters of BJP Manipur at Thambal Sanglen in Imphal witnessed significant political activity on Wednesday as party legislators and leaders assembled for a strategic closed-door meeting with national general secretary BL Santhosh.
High-Stakes Meeting Amid Political Transition
This marked Santhosh's first visit to Manipur since the imposition of President's Rule on February 13, occurring simultaneously with mounting pressure from BJP MLAs for the restoration of an elected government. The gathering signaled the party's renewed determination to reorganize its structure, reconnect with the electorate, and establish foundations for potential government formation.
Twenty-nine BJP MLAs, including former chief minister N Biren Singh, participated in the crucial deliberations. Santhosh arrived accompanied by BJP's northeast coordinator Sambit Patra, with plans to conduct separate meetings with Kuki-Zo MLAs.
Rebuilding Trust and Electoral Preparations
According to insider accounts, the discussions primarily focused on reconstructing public confidence and preparing the organizational machinery for the upcoming electoral contest scheduled for 2027. Participants viewed the early reinstatement of a popular ministry as fundamentally necessary for these objectives.
BJP MLA and party spokesperson Kh Ibomcha confirmed to journalists that the meeting emphasized strengthening the party and restoring normalcy across the state. He indicated that the process for forming a popular government is underway and likely to be completed before the current phase of President's Rule concludes in February 2026.
Former chief minister N Biren Singh reinforced this perspective, stating that central leaders had assured MLAs of expediting the restoration of an elected administration.
Unified Vision for Manipur's Future
Sapam Ranjan, who served as minister in the previous Biren Singh cabinet, clarified that the central purpose of Santhosh's visit involved reinforcing the party's presence in Manipur. "We also discussed the necessity of a popular government in Manipur. The central leadership concurs that this is absolutely essential," he stated.
BJP legislator Tongbram Robindro revealed that conversations also addressed securing BJP's return to power in the 2027 state assembly elections and the importance of establishing grassroots connections with citizens.
"We require a popular government that addresses public grievances and instills fresh hope among the people. The central leaders comprehend public sentiment and are actively addressing it," Robindro emphasized.
When questioned about potential leadership disagreements, Robindro confirmed consensus among MLAs, noting that while central leaders ultimately select the legislative leader, MLAs advocated for comprehensive consultations before the final decision.
