Former Manipur minister Yumnam Khemchand has stated that a meeting of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MLAs will be convened shortly to deliberate on matters concerning the formation of a new government in the state.
Khemchand, who previously held the portfolio of municipal administration, housing and urban development, dismissed speculations regarding internal divisions among BJP legislators and refuted claims about the potential formation of a new regional party.
Speaking to reporters after meeting state BJP president A Sharda, Khemchand said, "Following the resignation of N Biren Singh from the chief minister's post, the MLAs have not held a meeting. Earlier, when we had a leader of the legislature, we used to sit together and jointly discuss issues. After his resignation, the state party president is our leader. Soon, a meeting of the party MLAs will be scheduled."
"During the meeting, we will discuss matters related to the formation of a new government," Khemchand, who has been an outspoken critic of Biren Singh, added.
Also read: Manipur under President’s Rule: What led to the political crisis?
On whether the seven Kuki BJP MLAs would attend the meeting, Khemchand remarked that it was unlikely, given the prevailing situation arising from the ongoing ethnic conflict.
Asked about reports of separate camps among BJP MLAs and speculation over the formation of a new regional party, Khemchand responded, "We have also heard about these things in the media. BJP MLAs are one. There is no rift among them. There is no question of the formation of a new regional party. If anyone is contemplating that, he or she is day-dreaming."
Regarding the selection of a new chief minister, he stated, "Let the central leaders decide on that."
Manipur has been under President’s Rule since 13 February, with the Assembly placed under suspended animation, following the resignation of N Biren Singh as chief minister. His departure came in the wake of nearly 21 months of ethnic violence that has resulted in over 250 fatalities.
A meeting of Manipur BJP MLAs will be convened soon to discuss government formation, former minister Yumnam Khemchand has said.
He dismissed speculations about divisions within the party and the formation of a new regional outfit, affirming that all MLAs remain united.
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