The sudden arrival of B.L. Santosh, BJP National General Secretary (Organisation), and Sambit Patra, the party’s Northeast Coordinator, in Imphal on Wednesday has set off intense political speculation that the central leadership may be preparing the ground for the restoration of an elected government in Manipur.
Their visit comes at a politically sensitive juncture, as Manipur remains under President’s Rule since February 13, 2025, following the resignation of former Chief Minister N. Biren Singh amid ethnic unrest and administrative paralysis. With central rule now extended until February 2026, pressure is mounting within the BJP ranks to revive a “popular government” in the state.
According to party sources, Santosh has been tasked with assessing the political mood within the Manipur BJP unit, holding one-on-one meetings with legislators, and preparing a detailed report for the party’s national leadership. Closed-door meetings are reportedly being held with BJP and allied MLAs to discuss leadership options, realignments, and the feasibility of forming an interim political arrangement ahead of the 2027 Assembly elections.
Political observers believe the visit may be a strategic step to test the strength and unity of the BJP’s state legislators. While the party enjoys a numerical edge, internal dissension and the fragile law-and-order situation have so far deterred the Centre from lifting President’s Rule.
Former Chief Minister N. Biren Singh has also reignited public debate on the issue. Speaking to media, he revealed that 26 BJP MLAs had recently met with Santosh and Patra to urge the leadership to “install a popular government.” “We are united in this demand, and the leadership has assured us that they are considering it,” Biren said.
Echoing similar sentiments, BJP MLA Kh. Robindro Singh stated that legislators wanted a government “that reflects the aspirations of the people,” adding that restoring a representative government would help rebuild trust and stability in the strife-torn state.
Analysts remain divided on the implications of the visit. Some see it as an exploratory effort to revive party morale and assess the risks of factionalism, while others view it as a possible prelude to reintroducing civilian governance — a move that could help the Centre counter criticism over prolonged central rule.
Though no formal announcement has yet been made, the leaders’ engagements in the coming days are expected to be crucial in determining whether Manipur is ready to transition from administrative rule to a restored political government — a decision that could reshape the state’s fragile political landscape.
