With Manipur CM N Biren Singh resigning on Sunday, finalising his replacement is the next big task for the BJP. The party’s central leadership may buy time for evolving a consensus for it, sources said.
Manipur CM Biren Singh’s Resignation
With Manipur CM N Biren Singh resigning on Sunday, finalising his replacement is the next big task for the BJP. The party’s central leadership may buy time for evolving a consensus for it, sources said. According to a statement from the Raj Bhavan in Imphal, Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla has asked N Biren Singh to continue in office till “alternative arrangements” are made. According to sources, a meeting is on in Delhi and the next steps would be communicated to the Governor by late night.
President’s Rule next in Manipur?
However, since there is no leader yet who enjoys the support of a majority of party MLAs, the Centre may have to impose President’s Rule. According to Article 356 of the Constitution, the proclamation of President’s Rule shall be laid before each house of Parliament within two months. If not, then President’s Rule shall cease to expire.
The Centre, sources said, was looking to buy more time before going to Parliament, which is currently in session. The first part of the Budget session, although scheduled till February 13, is likely to be adjourned for recess two days in advance as Wednesday is a holiday because of Ravidas Jayanti.
Sources indicated President’s Rule could be initially imposed for four to five months and extended till a consensus candidate for CM was found. President’s Rule can be extended by up to six months each time. Meitei civil society leader Jeetendra Ningomba who was formerly the coordinator of prominent Meitei civil society organisation COCOMI expressed opposite views, saying that President’s Rule would be “unacceptable”.
