Mon Feb 10 05:49:26 UTC 2025: ## Manipur CM Resigns, President’s Rule Possible Amidst Leadership Vacuum

**Imphal/New Delhi:** Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh resigned on Sunday, leaving the BJP scrambling to find a replacement. While Singh recommended suspending the state assembly to allow for a consensus candidate, a lack of clear majority support among BJP MLAs has raised the possibility of President’s Rule being imposed.

Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla has asked Singh to remain in office as caretaker until a successor is appointed. A meeting is underway in Delhi to determine the next steps, with a decision expected to be communicated to the Governor shortly. The Governor has already nullified the assembly’s previously scheduled Monday session.

Speculation surrounds potential successors, including Speaker Thokchom Satyabrata Singh and Urban Development Minister Yumnam Khemchand, but sources within the BJP indicate a decision will only be made after extensive deliberations.

The central government is reportedly seeking to buy time before presenting any decision to Parliament, which is currently in session. Given the upcoming recess, the imposition of President’s Rule could be delayed until the session resumes in March. Sources suggest President’s Rule might initially last four to five months, potentially extended until a consensus candidate emerges.

The possibility of President’s Rule is met with mixed reactions. Kuki-Zo groups favor central government control, viewing a new Meitei CM as insufficient change. Conversely, Meitei civil society leaders oppose President’s Rule, citing past negative experiences. The BJP’s internal divisions are evident, with some MLAs expressing concern over the potential negative image of extended President’s Rule.

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