Manipur CM N Biren Singh Resigns Amid Political Turmoil and Ethnic Unrest

Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh tendered his resignation on Sunday, nearly two years after ethnic violence erupted in the. In his resignation letter, Singh expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve the people of Manipur.

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Neha Kumari
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Biren singh

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Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh tendered his resignation on Sunday, nearly two years after ethnic violence erupted in the state. The BJP leader submitted his resignation letter to Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla at the Raj Bhavan in Imphal, marking a significant political development in the northeastern state. 

Singh’s Statement on Resignation

In his resignation letter, Singh expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve the people of Manipur. "It has been an honour to serve the people of Manipur thus far. I am extremely grateful to the central government for its timely actions, interventions, developmental work, and implementation of various projects for safeguarding the interests of every single Manipuri," he stated.

Singh’s resignation comes just a week before the assembly session scheduled for February 10 and amid the opposition Congress’ push for a no-confidence motion against his government.

Political Developments Leading to Resignation

Hours before resigning, Biren Singh returned from Delhi, where he reportedly met senior BJP leaders to discuss the ongoing situation in Manipur. On Saturday, he convened a crucial meeting with BJP-led alliance MLAs at the CM Secretariat to strategize ahead of the assembly session.

His resignation follows persistent ethnic unrest that has gripped the state since May 2023, leading to hundreds of deaths and displacement of thousands. Singh, who has been at the helm of efforts to restore peace in Manipur, reiterated on Saturday that his government was committed to ensuring people live together peacefully as before.

Congress’ Reaction to Biren Singh’s Exit

The opposition Congress welcomed Singh’s resignation but termed it "belated." Congress MP Jairam Ramesh took a swipe at Prime Minister Narendra Modi, stating, "The people of Manipur now await a visit by our Frequent Flier PM, who is off to France and the USA now – and who has found neither the time nor the inclination to go to Manipur these past twenty months."

With the resignation of N Biren Singh, political uncertainty looms over Manipur as the state grapples with ongoing ethnic strife and governance challenges. The BJP is expected to announce a new leadership soon to navigate the volatile situation.