Mugdha Das

BJP’s northeast in-charge Sambit Patra visits Manipur

Digital Desk: In a day marked by swift political movements, BJP Northeast in-charge and MP Sambit Patra met with former Manipur chief minister N. Biren Singh at his Imphal residence on Monday.

This meeting has fueled renewed speculation about the formation of a new government in Manipur. 

The closed-door meeting between Sambit Patra and N. Biren Singh is being viewed as a key step in the BJP’s attempt to revive political momentum in Manipur, which has been under President’s Rule since February 13. 

The state has remained without an elected government following Biren Singh’s resignation on February 9 amid a backdrop of unrest and administrative challenges.

Party sources indicate that Patra’s visit is aimed at initiating discussions with legislators to gauge the feasibility of forming a new government without necessitating fresh elections. 

The presence of an active assembly has left the door open for political maneuvering.

It may be mentioned here that BJP Northeast in-charge and MP Sambit Patra arrived at the Imphal airport on Monday for a crucial visit to Manipur, amid growing calls within the state unit for a change in leadership.

Prior to his meeting with former Manipur chief minister N. Biren Singh, Sambit Patra met two Kuki MLAs in the Churachandpur district of Manipur.

After landing at Imphal airport, Patra headed for Churachandpur by helicopter.

In Churachandpur, Patra met Thanlon BJP MLA Vung-zagin Valte, who survived a mob attack on May 4, 2023, in Imphal. 

He also met Churachandpur MLA LM Khaute and leaders of the Zomi Student Federation.

Valte, who has been confined to a wheelchair due to his injuries from the 2023 attack, welcomed Patra warmly.

The two engaged in a 30-minute private discussion inside Valte's residence.

The visit was attended by Churachandpur MLA LM Khaute and leaders of the Zomi Students' Federation, who submitted a memorandum to Patra.