JD(U) suspends Manipur unit chief after withdrawing support from Biren Singh government

JD(U) Suspends Manipur Unit Chief After Withdrawing Support from Biren Singh Government

In a significant political development, the Janata Dal (United) [JD(U)] has suspended its Manipur unit chief, Khomba Singh, following the party’s decision to withdraw support from the N. Biren Singh-led BJP government in the state. The move has sent shockwaves through Manipur’s political landscape, raising questions about the stability of the ruling coalition and the internal dynamics of the JD(U).  

The decision to withdraw support came after weeks of simmering tensions between the JD(U) and the BJP over issues of governance and resource allocation. “We felt that the concerns of our people were being ignored, and the government was not addressing key developmental issues,” said a senior JD(U) leader, speaking on condition of anonymity.  

Khomba Singh, however, reportedly opposed the decision to pull out of the coalition, leading to his suspension. “His actions were not in line with the party’s stance. We had no choice but to take disciplinary action,” stated JD(U) national general secretary Afaque Ahmad Khan in a press release.  

The suspension has sparked a heated debate within the party, with some members accusing the leadership of acting hastily. “Khomba Singh has been a dedicated leader. His suspension without proper discussion is unfair,” said a JD(U) worker from Manipur.  

The BJP, meanwhile, has downplayed the impact of JD(U)’s withdrawal, claiming that the government remains stable. “We have the numbers and the support of the people. This will not affect our governance,” said a BJP spokesperson.  

Political analysts, however, believe the move could have far-reaching consequences. “The JD(U)’s withdrawal exposes the fragility of the coalition. It also highlights the growing discontent among smaller allies in BJP-led governments,” said Dr. Rajesh Mehta, a political commentator.  

The development comes at a critical time for Manipur, which is grappling with issues of insurgency, ethnic tensions, and economic challenges. The opposition has seized the opportunity to criticize the Biren Singh government, calling for fresh elections. “This government has lost its moral authority. It’s time for the people to decide,” said Okram Ibobi Singh, leader of the Congress party in Manipur.  

As the political drama unfolds, the focus remains on how the BJP will navigate the crisis and whether the JD(U) will reconsider its stance. For now, the suspension of Khomba Singh and the withdrawal of support have added a new layer of uncertainty to Manipur’s already complex political scenario.