Mon Nov 18 05:04:29 UTC 2024: ## Manipur’s Ruling Coalition Shaken as Key Ally Withdraws Support Amidst Growing Violence

Imphal, Manipur – The political landscape in Manipur is experiencing significant upheaval following the National People’s Party’s (NPP) withdrawal of support from the BJP-led state government. This decision, announced Sunday by NPP chief Conrad Sangma, cites the government’s failure to quell the ongoing ethnic violence and restore normalcy. While the BJP retains a comfortable majority in the 60-member assembly, the NPP’s departure, representing seven MLAs, marks a considerable political setback for Chief Minister N Biren Singh.

The move comes amidst escalating violence, including the burning of several ministers’ and MLAs’ homes following the discovery of the bodies of a Meitei woman and her two children. Ten suspected Hmar militants were killed in a subsequent CRPF operation. This incident further inflamed tensions and fueled calls for the Chief Minister’s resignation.

Opposition Congress MLAs have stated their willingness to resign if the people demand fresh elections to facilitate peace. Meanwhile, concerns are rising within the BJP itself, with reports of several MLAs traveling to Delhi to meet Union Home Minister Amit Shah. While these meetings haven’t been confirmed, Mr. Shah canceled political engagements in Maharashtra to focus on the Manipur crisis and has held security briefings, dispatching additional forces to the region.

Sources suggest discontent within the BJP is widespread, with a significant number of MLAs seeking stronger central government intervention. The situation remains tense, with further incidents of violence reported, including an attack on an RSS office. Despite relative calm in some areas, the ongoing unrest highlights the fragility of the situation and the deep-seated divisions within Manipur’s society. The central government’s response and the ability of the state government to restore order will be crucial in determining the future political trajectory of the state.

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