IMPHAL – In a landmark political reset aimed at restoring stability to the restive state, Yumnam Khemchand Singh was sworn in as the Chief Minister of Manipur on the evening of February 4, 2026.
The ceremony marks the official revocation of President’s Rule, which had been in place since February 2025 following the resignation of N. Biren Singh. The State Assembly, which had been in “suspended animation” for a year, is now officially active once again.
A Tri-Ethnic Cabinet Structure
In a strategic move to address the state’s deep ethnic fissures, the new government features a power-sharing arrangement involving the three major communities:
-
Chief Minister: Yumnam Khemchand Singh (Meitei community). A 61-year-old leader seen as a “non-polarising” administrative choice.
-
Deputy CM 1: Nemcha Kipgen (Kuki tribe). Notably, she took her oath from Manipur Bhavan in Delhi, reflecting the ongoing geographical and security complexities.
-
Deputy CM 2: Losii Dikho (Naga tribe).
-
Home Minister: Govindas Konthoujam, a veteran leader tasked with the state’s internal security.
Analysis: By appointing deputies from both the Kuki and Naga communities alongside a Meitei CM, the leadership is attempting to project a “United Manipur” front to the Centre and the local populace.
Political Context: Ending Suspended Animation
The state has been under Central rule for exactly one year. While the hostilities that broke out in May 2023 have subsided into an “uneasy peace,” the political landscape remains fragile.
| Key Event | Date |
| Resignation of N. Biren Singh | February 2025 |
| Imposition of President’s Rule | February 2025 |
| Revocation of President’s Rule | February 4, 2026 |
| Swearing-in of New Cabinet | February 4, 2026 |
The Road Ahead: Challenges for the New CM
Chief Minister Khemchand Singh faces an uphill battle in a state where trust between communities remains at an all-time low.
-
Ethnic Reconciliation: While the government is inclusive on paper, Kuki civil society groups have expressed resistance. Kuki leader Paolienlal Haokip recently stated that representatives cannot be part of the government without a “written commitment for political settlement.”
-
The Displaced Population: Meitei civil society groups are pushing for the safe return of thousands of internally displaced persons (IDPs) currently living in relief camps.
-
Separate Administration Demand: A section of the Kuki tribes continues to demand a separate administration, a move staunchly opposed by Meitei leaders who view it as a threat to the state’s territorial integrity.
-
Suspension of Operations (SoO): Managing the delicate negotiations with two dozen insurgent groups under the existing SoO agreement will be a primary focus for Home Minister Konthoujam.
