A year after presidential rule ended, Manipur has formed a new government. Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla administered the oath to Yumnam Khemchand Singh as Chief Minister at Imphal's Lok Bhavan on Wednesday. Accompanying him, two deputy CMs and two other legislators were sworn in as ministers.
The BJP entrusted Khemchand Singh with leadership, strategically appointing Nemcha Kipgen and Losii Dikho as deputy CMs to maintain political balance. Additionally, the BJP's Govindas Konthoujam and the National People's Party's Loken were appointed as ministers.
A new government has formed under Khemchand in Manipur, but seven ministerial positions remain vacant. The cabinet expansion is anticipated later, presenting a real test for Yumnam Khemchand Singh.
Political Hurdles for Khemchand?
With his leadership comes a thorny crown. Social division persists, displaced people remain in relief camps, and movement between hills and valleys is limited. Community distrust endures.
State assembly elections are due in 2027. Winning the people's trust within a year poses a challenge. Yet, the reinstatement of an elected government sparks hope for peace and normalcy. The new CM has vowed to prioritize peace, development, and communal interests, but challenges like rehabilitation, opening routes, dialogue, and security linger.
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The Challenge of Creating Social Balance
Ethnic violence between Meitei and Kuki communities left hundreds dead and thousands homeless, maintaining social tension for two years. Accusations of bias against former CM Biren Singh linger as power shifts again to Meitei leader Khemchand Singh, alongside Kuki and Naga deputy CMs. This equation's goal is to bridge societal divides.
Source: aajtak
Khemchand is considered a liberal Meitei leader with strong social influence and acceptance among Kuki and Naga communities. He was the only Meitei politician to visit a Kuki relief camp, gaining attention when he visited a displaced village in Naga-majority Ukhrul district in December 2025. His visit signaled a significant political role during state divisions.
During upheaval, Khemchand maintained a low profile, avoiding public statements. As CM, his primary goal is bridging gaps between Kuki and Meitei communities.
Challenge of Maintaining Peace
Post-Biren Singh and during presidential rule, the center stayed alert to prevent deteriorating conditions in Manipur. Stability returned then, followed by formation of Khemchand's government, tasked to prevent escalation. Disarmament was incomplete, travel in hilly and valley areas disputed, and talks with militant groups continued.
Agreements with Kuki groups eased movement, but rekindling ceasefire accords are crucial for lasting peace. In September 2025, PM Modi's visit to Manipur - his first since violence started - was seen as a peace signal.
Peace restoration is paramount for Khemchand, ensuring the state returns to progressive tracks and unhindered travel. With 60,000 displaced due to violence, the CM aims to repatriate them.
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2027: Aiming for a Hat-trick in Power
Assuming power as political excitement builds for next year's assembly elections, Khemchand's task spans beyond peace and social balance to achieving Mission 2027.
With assembly elections in 2027, the new government's success will hinge on winning public trust. BJP's presence in the Northeast fuels both political and ideological goals. Under scrutiny, Khemchand's leadership over the next year holds the key to navigating political intricacies and attaining an electoral hat-trick in 2027.
