Feb. 10, 2025: The resignation of Chief Minister N. Biren Singh has triggered a storm of political reactions, with opposition leaders slamming the BJP-led government for its handling of the prolonged violence and humanitarian crisis in the state.
Congress leaders have described Biren Singh’s resignation as a “forced reckoning,” but many argue that it comes too late to undo the devastating damage inflicted on Manipur.
Congress MP A. Bimol Akoijam emphasized the urgent need for a capable administration to address the state’s deepening crises.
“Manipur’s economic devastation and humanitarian challenges demand leadership that can rebuild trust and restore peace. The resignation of N. Biren Singh is just the beginning of what needs to be a comprehensive overhaul of governance,” he said.
His statement reflects growing calls for immediate action to stabilize the state and address its long-standing grievances.
Meanwhile, AICC Manipur In-charge Girish Chodankar minced no words in his fiery statement, accusing Biren Singh of orchestrating ethnic violence during his tenure.
“If this resignation had come 22 months ago, countless lives and property could have been saved. His administration has left Manipur internally displaced, emotionally broken, and economically ruined,” Chodankar wrote on social media, demanding the prosecution of the former CM for enabling militant groups and allowing the state to spiral into chaos.
Rahul Gandhi, Leader of Opposition, also weighed in, stating, “For nearly two years, BJP’s CM Biren Singh instigated division in Manipur. PM Modi allowed him to continue despite the violence, loss of life, and the destruction of the idea of India in Manipur.”
Gandhi highlighted that Singh’s resignation was the result of relentless public pressure, a Supreme Court investigation, and Congress’s planned no-confidence motion against him. However, Gandhi stressed that the resignation was not the end but the beginning of the fight to restore normalcy and heal the wounds of the people of Manipur.
“PM Modi must visit Manipur at once and explain his plan to bring back peace,” he added.
The Congress was reportedly poised to move a no-confidence motion against the Chief Minister during the assembly session, which was scheduled to commence today but has now been delayed.
Congress leaders have accused the BJP of trying to avoid accountability, with Chodankar alleging that Singh’s resignation was an attempt to escape further scrutiny, particularly following the release of leaked audio tapes allegedly exposing his role in the violence.
On social media, MPCC President K. Meghachandra cryptically remarked, “Brahmastra Missile hits one of the Double Engines and damaged one Engine,” in a dig at the BJP’s “double-engine government” rhetoric.
This comment highlights growing calls for systemic accountability, with many questioning the central government’s inaction during the prolonged crisis in Manipur.
As Manipur awaits clarity on the state’s next course of action, many wonder if N. Biren Singh’s resignation is merely a symbolic gesture or the first step toward meaningful change. With speculation of President’s Rule looming and the humanitarian and political crises far from resolved, the people of Manipur continue to demand justice, accountability, and a plan for lasting peace.
For now, the critical question remains: will this resignation be enough to heal the deep wounds of a state battered by violence and division?
