Who Is the New Chief Minister Of Manipur? He Takes Oath After One Year Of President’s Rule

Manipur has a new elected government after nearly a year of President's Rule, with BJP Legislature Party leader Yumnam Khemchand Singh taking oath as the Chief Minister of the state.

The oath ceremony marks a significant political transition in the border state, which has witnessed prolonged instability and ethnic tensions over the past few years.

The swearing-in took place at Lok Bhavan, where Ajay Kumar Bhalla administered the oath of office and secrecy to Khemchand Singh.

The ceremony was attended by BJP legislators, senior party leaders, and key representatives of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) in Manipur.

President's Rule Revoked Ahead of Oath Ceremony

Khemchand Singh's oath came a day after the Union Ministry of Home Affairs revoked President's Rule in Manipur. The state had been under central rule since February 2025 following the resignation of then Chief Minister N Biren Singh.

According to a notification published in the Gazette of India (Extraordinary), Droupadi Murmu formally revoked the proclamation issued under Article 356(2) of the Constitution.

The earlier proclamation, dated February 13, 2025, had placed the Manipur Assembly in suspended animation, meaning it was not dissolved but remained inactive.

The fresh proclamation, signed on February 4, 2026, stated that President's Rule in Manipur stood withdrawn with immediate effect, paving the way for the formation of an elected government.

New Council of Ministers Takes Shape

Along with the Chief Minister, BJP leader Govindas Konthoujam and K Loken Singh of the National People's Party (NPP) were sworn in as ministers. Their induction reflects the NDA's alliance-based approach in the state, where coalition politics continues to play an important role.

Govindas Konthoujam, a senior leader and multiple-time MLA, is expected to handle key responsibilities in the new government, while K Loken Singh's inclusion strengthens the NDA's partnership with regional allies.

Why Biren Singh Resigned?

The return of an elected government follows months of political uncertainty that began with the resignation of N Biren Singh in February last year. His exit came amid growing dissatisfaction within the state BJP and sustained pressure from the opposition, which accused him of failing to control violence and restore normalcy in Manipur.

At the time, the state was grappling with intense ethnic clashes, large-scale displacement, and law-and-order challenges. With no clear consensus on leadership, President's Rule was imposed to stabilise the situation and allow space for political reorganisation.

Who Is Yumnam Khemchand Singh

Yumnam Khemchand Singh is considered a relatively low-profile and non-polarising leader within the BJP. Party sources describe him as an administrator with a calm approach, seen as suitable for leading the state during a sensitive transition phase.

His elevation is viewed as an attempt by the BJP to reset governance in Manipur, focus on administrative stability, and rebuild trust among different communities affected by prolonged unrest.

Challenges Ahead for the New Government

Despite the formation of a new government, Manipur continues to face deep-rooted challenges. Ethnic tensions between the Meitei community in the valley and tribal groups in the hill districts have not fully subsided, and thousands of people are still living in relief camps.

Restoring peace, ensuring the safe return of displaced families, and rebuilding confidence among communities will be among the biggest tests for the Khemchand Singh-led administration. At the same time, the government will have to balance political expectations within the NDA while coordinating with the Centre on security and rehabilitation efforts.

A Return to Elected Governance

The lifting of President's Rule and the swearing-in of a new Chief Minister mark an important step towards normalising democratic governance in Manipur. While the road ahead remains difficult, the new government's formation signals the beginning of a fresh political chapter for the state after a long period of central rule and uncertainty.