Imphal: Manipur marked the end of nearly a year of President’s Rule with the swearing-in of Yumnam Khemchand Singh as the Chief Minister.
Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla administered the oath of office, making Singh the state’s second Chief Minister since the 2022 Assembly election.
President’s Rule, imposed on February 13, 2025, was revoked ahead of the ceremony. Singh succeeds Nongthombam Biren Singh, who resigned on February 9, 2025, amid continuing ethnic violence between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities. The conflict began on May 3, 2023, and led to prolonged political instability in the state.
Along with the Chief Minister, two Deputy Chief Ministers were sworn in to reflect Manipur’s diverse social composition. BJP MLA Nemcha Kipgen from Kangpokpi, who belongs to the Kuki-Zo community, and Naga People’s Front MLA Losii Dikho, a Naga leader representing the Mao constituency, took oath as Deputy Chief Ministers. Kipgen was sworn in virtually from Manipur Bhavan in New Delhi.
Before attending his first Cabinet meeting, Singh spoke to the media and said his government reflected Manipur’s social diversity. He noted that the state is home to 36 communities and explained that the appointment of two Deputy Chief Ministers was meant to represent the two major communities. He said the new government would focus on restoring stability, rebuilding trust, and ensuring inclusive governance across the state.
