End of road for Biren Singh? Speculation rife in Manipur as Opposition mulls no-confidence motion

Manipur Chief Minister Biren Singh. (PTI/File)

Amid ethnic clashes that have claimed over 250 lives since May 2023 and allegations of the government's mishandling of the situation in the state, Manipur is seeing a fresh wave of speculation over a possible change of chief minister.

Manipur CM N Biren Singh has faced criticism over his handling of the ethnic conflict in the state. The rumours of a possible change at the helm began as the Chief Minister and several ministers of his cabinet left Imphal on Wednesday amid indications that the Opposition led by Congress was mulling a no-confidence motion in the Assembly.

While there was speculation that the CM and ministers were headed to Delhi, Singh took to X to later clarify that they were in Prayagraj for a holy dip at the Maha Kumbh. “May this sacred gathering strengthen our collective spirit and guide us toward a brighter future... I pray for peace, prosperity, and well being of our great nation and the beloved people of Manipur," Singh posted on X.

At Triveni Sangam, where sacred rivers unite, the waters cleanse both body and soul. I pray for our nation and Manipur, seeking peace, strength, and prosperity. May divine grace guide us toward unity and light. pic.twitter.com/X6zRW3sNiA

N. Biren Singh (@NBirenSingh) February 6, 2025

Indications of a regime change gathered momentum after Assembly Speaker Satyabrata was summoned to Delhi last week. This was followed by the visit of Yumnam Khemchand, rural development and panchayati raj minister, to Delhi.

Congress is believed to be considering a no-confidence motion against the government with the help of some BJP MLAs who are disenchanted with the current leadership.

With 43 MLAs, the BJP-led alliance holds a majority in the 60-member Assembly. The BJP has 37 MLAs, the Naga People's Front has 5 while the Janata Dal United has 1 MLA.

Of the 16 Opposition MLAs, 6 MLAs are from the National People's Party, 5 are from the Congress, 3 are Independents while 2 are from the KPA which withdrew its support from the Biren government in August 2023.

Notably, this is not the first time that there is a buzz over Biren Singh's removal as CM. However, he has managed to weather several such storms and dismissed speculations of his removal.

Seen as a strong supporter of Meitei community, the only time that he tried to resign was in 2023. However, that attempt was scuttled by his supporters amid high drama as Meitei supporters destroyed his resignation letter.