JD(U) Withdraws Support From Biren Singh-Led BJP Govt In Manipur, Lone MLA Moves To Opposition

In an unexpected turn of events, the Nitish Kumar-led Janata Dal (United) has withdrawn its support from the N Biren Singh-led BJP government in Manipur, with its sole MLA now set to sit on the Opposition benches.

Although this move will not affect the stability of the government, it sends a strong signal, as the JD(U) is a key ally of the BJP at both the Centre and in Bihar.

The decision follows the earlier withdrawal of support by the Conrad Sangma-led National People's Party, which governs Meghalaya, from the Biren Singh administration.

The JD(U) had won six seats in the 2022 Manipur Assembly elections, but within months, five of its MLAs defected to the BJP, bolstering the ruling party's strength.

BJP currently commands 37 legislators in the 60-member Assembly, along with support from five MLAs of the Naga People's Front and three Independents, ensuring a comfortable majority.

Kshetrimayum Biren Singh, head of JD(U)'s Manipur unit, informed Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla of the party's decision in a letter.

"In the election to State Assembly of Manipur held in February/March, 2022, six candidates set up by Janata Dal (United) were returned. After a few months, five MLAs of Janata Dal (United) defected to BJP. Trial under Tenth Schedule of Constitution of India of the five MLAs is pending before the Speaker's Tribunal. After Janata Dal (United) became a part of INDIA bloc, support to the BJP-led government was withdrawn by Janata Dal (United) by informing the office of Hon'ble Governor, Leader of the House (Chief Minister) and Speaker."

"As such, seating arrangement of the lone MLA of Janata Dal (United) in Manipur, Md. Abdul Nasir, is made in the Opposition Bench in the last session of Assembly by the Speaker," the letter stated.

"It is, hereby, further reiterated that Janata Dal (United), Manipur Unit, does not support the BJP-led state government in Manipur, and our lone MLA, Md. Abdul Nasir, shall be treated as an opposition MLA in the House," it added.