Ibobi Singh Resigns as Manipur CM After BJP, Cong Claim Majority

The BJP claimed that it enjoyed the support of 32 MLAs in the 60-member assembly.

Manipur Chief Minster Ibobi Singh resigned on Monday night. (Photo: PTI)

Okram Ibobi Singh resigned from his position as the Chief Minister of Manipur late on Monday.

Earlier, Manipur Governor Najma Heptulla has asked the leader to submit his resignation immediately, so that the process of formation of the next government can be started.

Ibobi Singh, along with Deputy Chief Minister Gaikhamgam and state Congress president TN Haokip, had met the Governor last night. The Governor had asked Singh to resign immediately so that she can start the process of government formation. As per rules, until and unless the present Chief Minister resigns, the process of formation of the next government cannot be started.

Source in Governor’s House

The move comes on the heels of the BJP electing N Biren Singh as its legislature party leader in Manipur. He is expected to meet Governor Najma Heptulla soon to stake claim for forming government in the state.

As per rules, until and unless the present Chief Minister resigns, the process of formation of the next government cannot be started.

I was satisfied that they (BJP) have the support of 32 MLAs; CM came with a letter to claim he should be called. They (Congress) also brought a letter on behalf of NPP signed by secretary and the President. I told him you can’t bring letter on behalf of NPP.

Najma Heptullah, Manipur Governor

NPP leader Conrad Sangma said:

Congress’ letter to Governor claiming National People’s Party’s (NPP) support was fake.

The Governor said that it was her duty to cross check the claims, and that she would not accept an ordinary piece of paper as a "letter of support" unless she meets the NPP MLAs, the source said.

The BJP leadership with their 21 MLAs, along with NPP president and four party MLAs, one Congress MLA, lone LJP and TMC MLAs had also met the Governor.

The BJP had claimed that it enjoyed the support of 32 MLAs in the 60-member assembly.

They also submitted a letter from the Naga People's Front (NPF) president regarding their support to the BJP to form the government, the source said, adding that the Governor is yet to invite any party for government formation.

Video Editor: Mohd Ibrahim