Manipur has a new Chief Minister as President’s Rule ends after nearly a year. Yumnam Khemchand Singh takes charge amid a delicate power-sharing arrangement aimed at restoring political stability in the violence-hit state.
Yumnam Khemchand Singh takes oath as Manipur Chief Minister
Imphal: BJP Manipur Legislature Party leader Yumnam Khemchand Singh was sworn in as the Chief Minister of Manipur on Wednesday, marking the end of nearly a year of President’s Rule in the state that has been grappling with prolonged ethnic unrest.
Governor Ajay Bhalla administered the oath of office to Singh at a ceremony held at Lok Bhavan in Imphal. The development follows a political consensus reached earlier this week, paving the way for the restoration of an elected government in the northeastern state.
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On February 3, more than 45 legislators of the Manipur Legislative Assembly came together to back Yumnam Khemchand Singh for the top post. Singh, who represents the Meitei community, emerged as the consensus candidate amid efforts to stabilise governance in the violence-hit state.
The agreement among MLAs was seen as a crucial step toward ending administrative uncertainty and restoring political normalcy after months of central rule.
As part of a broader power-sharing arrangement aimed at maintaining ethnic balance, Nemcha Kipgen from the Kuki community has been appointed as Deputy Chief Minister. Senior leader Govindas Konthoujam has been entrusted with the Home portfolio, a key ministry given the prevailing security concerns in the state.
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Sources indicated that Manipur may also see the appointment of a second Deputy Chief Minister, with Loss Dikho, representing the Naga community, being considered for the role.
President’s Rule was imposed in Manipur on February 13, 2025, following widespread ethnic violence between Meitei and Kuki groups. The central rule was later extended on August 13 for an additional six months as the situation remained volatile.
With the formation of the new government, authorities hope the political transition will help in addressing security challenges, promoting reconciliation, and initiating the long process of restoring peace and normalcy in the state.
