Following N Biren Singh’s resignation as Manipur Chief Minister, the BJP leadership, led by Northeast coordinator Sambit Patra, held a series of intense meetings in Imphal on Monday. Patra engaged with senior party MLAs, including those who had opposed Biren Singh, to build consensus on the next Chief Minister. While discussions continue, Biren Singh remains in charge in an interim capacity.
Although the option of President’s Rule has not been ruled out, sources indicate that the BJP leadership prefers to avoid it. The party has traditionally opposed President’s Rule in principle and is working swiftly to name a replacement for Singh to ensure political stability in the state.
Potential Contenders for CM Post
Yumnam Khemchand Singh: Several BJP leaders have emerged as potential successors to Biren Singh. Among them is state Cabinet minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh, a senior leader and former Assembly Speaker (2017–2022). Khemchand Singh, known for his RSS backing, is seen as a strong contender due to his ability to accommodate various factions within the party.
Thockchom Satyabrata Singh: Another name in contention is Thockchom Satyabrata Singh, the current Speaker and a known critic of Biren Singh. Satyabrata, who served as a minister in the first BJP-led government in Manipur, enjoys the support of a section of MLAs.
Thongam Biswajit Singh: Biswajit Singh, a key Cabinet member in both of Biren Singh’s terms, is also being considered. Despite being a strong contender in 2017 and 2022, he remained loyal to Biren Singh until his resignation. As one of the BJP’s longest-serving MLAs in Manipur, Biswajit Singh could emerge as the party’s consensus choice for the top post.
The BJP holds a majority in the 60-member Manipur Assembly with 37 MLAs. However, seven of these legislators belong to the Kuki-Zo community, who have been boycotting Assembly sessions since the outbreak of violence in May 2023. They have openly stated that they will not cooperate with any state government under Biren Singh’s leadership.