**MLAs in Manipur Urge Central Government to Restore Popular Governance**
Twenty-one MLAs from Manipur have reached out to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah, urging the swift establishment of a “popular government” in the state, which is currently under President’s Rule. The initiative, spearheaded by Lourembam Rameshwar Meitei of the Keirao Assembly Constituency (BJP), culminated in a letter submitted on Tuesday.
The letter has garnered support from ten legislators representing the Kuki-Zo community, including 14 MLAs from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), three from the National People’s Party (NPP), two from the Naga People’s Front (NPF), and two independents. Notable signatories include Paonam Brojen (Wangjing Tentha, BJP), Kh. Raghumani Singh (Uripok, BJP), T. Robindro Singh (Thanga, BJP), Y. Radheshyam Singh (Hiyanglam, BJP), Md. Achab Uddin (Jiribam, JD(U)-merged BJP), and Janghemlung Panmei (Tamenglong, NPP).
The call for a popular government follows the resignation of former Chief Minister N Biren Singh on February 9, which led to the imposition of President’s Rule in Manipur due to internal strife within the BJP. Singh’s resignation was prompted by increasing dissent regarding his management of the Meiti-Kuki ethnic violence and an impending no-confidence motion.
In their letter, the MLAs acknowledged the initial public support for President’s Rule, stating, “The people of Manipur welcomed the President’s Rule imposed on 13th February 2025, with hope and expectations. However, nearly three months later, no visible actions to restore peace and normalcy have been seen.”
The letter expressed concerns over rising unrest, noting, “There is a strong apprehension among the public that violence may reoccur. Several civil society organizations have begun opposing President’s Rule and are demanding the formation of a popular government.” Public rallies and street meetings have emerged, with ruling MLAs facing criticism for not taking steps to form a government and for the continuation of President’s Rule.
Additional signatories include Th. Radheshyam (Heirok, BJP), N. Nisikant Sapam (Independent), S. Rajen Singh (Lamshang, BJP), Kh. Loken Singh (Wangoi, NPP), J. Kumo Sha (Karong, Independent), Sheikh Noorul Hassan (Kshetrigao, NPP), Khongkham Robindro Singh (Mayang Imphal, BJP), Y. Khemchand (Singjamei, BJP), and Th. Arunkumar (Wangkhei, JD(U)-merged BJP). Other notable names include Leishiyo Keishing (Phungyar, NPF), Kh. Joykisan Singh (Thangmeiband, JD(U)-merged BJP), S. Kebi Devi (Naoriya Pakhanglakpa, BJP), Losii Dikho (Mao, NPF), and Ram Muivah (Ukhrul, BJP).
The MLAs concluded their letter with a plea for immediate action, stating, “We believe that installing a popular government is the only way to restore peace and normalcy in Manipur.” They assured their commitment to restoring peace if a popular government is reinstated.
**FAQ**
**What prompted the MLAs in Manipur to request a popular government?**
The MLAs are concerned about the lack of visible actions to restore peace and normalcy under President’s Rule, following the resignation of the former Chief Minister amid internal conflicts and ethnic violence.
