44 MLAs back NDA's bid to end President's Rule in Manipur
In Manipur, the exercise to form a government has intensified after the President's rule. 10 NDA MLAs met Governor Ajay Bhalla and claimed the support of 44 MLAs. The Manipur Assembly has 60 seats and a majority of 31 is needed to form the government. BJP has 8, NPP has 1 and Independents have 1 MLA.
On February 13, 2025, President's rule was enforced in Manipur due to increasing violence between the Kuki and Meitei communities. Since 2023, numerous violent incidents have been reported between these groups, resulting in the deaths of over 300 individuals.
Following the surge in violence, Chief Minister Biren Singh stepped down on February 9, leading to the imposition of President's rule in Manipur. Currently, efforts to establish a new government in the state have gained momentum, with 10 NDA MLAs visiting Raj Bhavan to meet Governor Ajay Bhalla, asserting they have the backing of 44 MLAs to form the government.
Manipur Assembly has 60 seats
The Manipur Assembly consists of 60 seats, requiring a majority of approximately 31 MLAs to establish the government. During a meeting with the Governor, 10 MLAs asserted their intention to form the government, backed by 44 MLAs. Among these 10 MLAs, there are 8 from the BJP, 1 from the NPP, and 1 Independent MLA.
Will NDA form government in Manipur?
Following a meeting with the Governor, BJP MLA Thokchom Radheshyam stated that 44 MLAs are prepared to establish a government, as the public is experiencing hardships due to the imposition of President's rule after the Covid pandemic.
He emphasized that this is the opportune moment to form a government. Manipur Chief Minister Biren Singh stepped down on February 9 amid escalating violence between the Kuki and Meitei communities and increasing criticism directed at the government.