President's rule ends in Manipur; who is Yumnam Khemchand Singh set to become state's new CM
Bharatiya Janata Party leader Yumnam Khemchand Singh has been elected as the leader of the legislative party in Manipur. He will now be the state's new Chief Minister. It is worth noting that President's Rule had been imposed in Manipur after more than two years of violence in the state.
On February 13, 2025, the President of India imposed President's Rule in Manipur under Article 356 of the Constitution. According to the Constitution, this declaration of President's Rule was valid for six months. It was subsequently extended for another six months on August 5th.
The selection of Yumnam Khemchand Singh as Chief Minister is being seen as a major step towards bringing stability to the state. North East Coordinator Sambit Patra, Manipur BJP in-charge Ajit Gopchade, and observer Tarun Chugh were specifically present at the BJP legislative party meeting.
Yumnam is likely to visit the Raj Bhavan soon to stake his claim
Yumnam Khemchand has previously played important roles as Speaker of the Manipur Legislative Assembly and as a cabinet minister. His appointment has finally ended the long-standing suspense regarding the leadership change in the state. It is speculated that he will soon visit the Raj Bhavan (Governor's residence) to stake his claim to form the government, and the composition of his cabinet will also become clear soon.
Who is Yumnam Khemchand?
Yumnam Khemchand Singh is considered an experienced and influential leader in Manipur. Hailing from the Singjamei constituency, Khemchand Singh's journey to the Chief Minister's chair has been remarkable. He has served as the Speaker of the Manipur Legislative Assembly and is known for his impartial working style. In the previous government, he held important ministries such as Rural Development and Panchayati Raj.
Ethnic violence in Manipur began on May 3, 2023, and continues to this day. This violence, which has been ongoing for more than two years, has resulted in the deaths of over 260 people and the displacement of more than 60,000. The state has experienced prolonged unrest and intermittent clashes.