Former Manipur Chief Minister Nongthombam Biren Singh on Wednesday called for the restoration of a “popular government” in the state, asserting that he had been forced to resign in the wake of the ongoing Manipur crisis.
Speaking to reporters after attending the inaugural ceremony of the Iputhou Marjing Expo – 2025 at the Marjing Polo Tourism Complex in Heingang, Biren Singh stressed that Manipur needs an elected government that consults directly with the people rather than prolonging President’s Rule.
“Even under President’s Rule, elected MLAs are allowed access to the Secretariat, but what is needed is not just access, but consultation with the people,” Biren Singh said. “Instead of extending the President’s Rule, it is time to bring back a popular government that can listen to the people and address their concerns directly.”
The former Chief Minister also revealed that his resignation was not voluntary but compelled by the deteriorating law and order situation. “I was forced to step down because of the crisis. Now, what the people of Manipur need is stability through a government they have chosen,” he added.
While Biren Singh attended the expo as the Chief Guest, the four-day event, organized by the Centre for Research on Environmental Development (CRED) and North East Women Entrepreneurs Association (NEWEA), is primarily aimed at promoting local entrepreneurship and cultural identity.
