The period of central rule and political uncertainty in Manipur has concluded with the official revocation of President's Rule. The Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) issued a notification ending the central administration with immediate effect, facilitating the formation of a new state government, while yumnam Khemchand, the newly elected leader of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) legislative party, has taken the oath of office as the Chief Minister of Manipur. The swearing-in ceremony was conducted by Governor Ajay Bhalla at Lok Bhavan in Imphal.
Constitutional Transition and Government Formation
The MHA notification stated that the revocation of President's Rule was necessary to restore the constitutional machinery in the state. Following the announcement, the BJP, which holds a significant majority in the 60-member assembly, moved to form the government. The BJP currently has 37 MLAs, supported by 6 MLAs from the National People's Party (NPP) and 5 from the Naga People's Front (NPF). This coalition provides a stable numerical foundation for the new administration as it takes charge during a critical period for the state.
Profile of Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand
Yumnam Khemchand, 62, is a seasoned politician and a professional engineer by training. Representing the Singjamei assembly constituency, he belongs to the Meitei community and has previously served as the Minister for Urban Administration and Housing in the Biren Singh cabinet. Khemchand is known for his close ties with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and was a prominent contender for the top post following the 2022 assembly elections. His administrative experience and reputation for a balanced approach are seen as vital assets for the current governance needs.
Legislative Party Election and Political Dynamics
The selection of Khemchand followed a high-level meeting at the BJP headquarters on Tuesday, where he was unanimously elected as the leader of the legislative party. The BJP central leadership had appointed National General Secretary Tarun Chugh as the observer for the election process. While senior leaders like Govindas Konthoujam, a seven-term MLA, and Th, while biswajit Singh were also in the race, the party leadership ultimately favored Khemchand. The transition marks a strategic shift in the state's political leadership aimed at addressing long-standing regional issues.
Context of Ethnic Conflict and Central Rule
President's Rule was initially imposed in Manipur on February 13, 2025, for a period of six months, following intense ethnic violence between the Meitei and Kuki communities that began in May 2023. The conflict resulted in over 260 fatalities and the displacement of thousands of residents. The central rule was extended for another six months in August 2025 to maintain law and order. The resignation of former CM N. Biren Singh had necessitated the intervention of the central government to stabilize the administrative and security framework of the state.
Analysis of Challenges and Future Outlook
According to political analysts, the primary challenge for the Khemchand administration will be the restoration of peace and the rebuilding of trust between ethnic groups. While the revocation of President's Rule indicates an improvement in the security situation, the task of rehabilitating displaced persons remains daunting. Analysts suggest that the return of an elected government may facilitate better grassroots communication and localized conflict resolution, while the central government has reiterated its commitment to providing security and financial support to ensure a smooth transition and long-term stability.
To sum it all up, the end of President's Rule and the swearing-in of Yumnam Khemchand represent a significant milestone in Manipur's democratic journey. The new government faces the dual responsibility of strengthening the law-and-order situation and revitalizing the state's economy. The focus will now shift to how the new leadership navigates the complex social fabric of Manipur while ensuring inclusive development and permanent peace in the northeastern state.