Manipur has initiated an emergency and crisis management plan following the resignation of Chief Minister N Biren Singh. According to sources, senior police officers and security forces have been deployed, with a primary focus on security in the Valley. However, the situation remains unpredictable in the wake of Singh’s resignation.
Top officials from the Manipur Police have confirmed that a sufficient number of troops are already stationed in the state, negating the need for additional Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) at this time. Law enforcement agencies are also closely monitoring political leaders who could potentially incite violence. While Singh’s resignation is politically motivated rather than due to security concerns, officials acknowledge that protests may erupt in the Valley.
“The Valley remains our focus area, as the CM belongs to this region. We are expecting protests, but sufficient forces have already been deployed. These forces are equipped with drones, hand jammers, and other necessary instruments, along with weapons, to handle any potential violence. However, the situation remains unpredictable,” a senior Manipur Police official told News18.
To bolster security, authorities have deployed bulletproof vehicles and intensified weapons recovery operations. Intelligence agencies have expressed concerns that underground leaders and individuals in undisclosed locations may attempt to escalate tensions.
Biren Singh, BJP North East Coordinator Sambit Patra, and a group of MLAs met Governor Ajay Bhalla at around 5:30 pm on February 9, following which Singh tendered his resignation. However, he has been requested to continue as caretaker Chief Minister for the time being. A Manipur Police official noted that since Singh is serving in a caretaker capacity, the situation could evolve further once his resignation process is finalized. The selection of a new Chief Minister may help mitigate any potential law and order issues.
Sources indicate that the Manipur Assembly is likely to be suspended. Since Parliament is currently in session, the imposition of President’s Rule would require immediate legislative approval from both Houses, potentially causing procedural delays. Until such measures are enacted, the Governor has asked Singh to continue as caretaker CM with limited powers. President’s Rule can only be imposed based on a formal report from the Governor.
