Yumnam Khemchand Set to Become Manipur Chief Minister

Manipur is set to get a new elected government as BJP MLA Yumnam Khemchand Singh was chosen Leader of the BJP Legislature Party, clearing the path for him to take over as Chief Minister. The decision comes ahead of the completion of one year of President’s Rule in the state on February 13, marking a crucial political transition.

BJP Legislature Party Decision

The decision was finalised after a meeting of BJP MLAs from Manipur and National Democratic Alliance partners in New Delhi. The meeting was attended by BJP central observer Tarun Chugh and the party’s Northeast in-charge Sambit Patra. With this selection, Yumnam Khemchand Singh is expected to form the next government once President’s Rule is lifted.

Political Context and Assembly Numbers

Manipur’s 60-member legislative assembly has remained under suspended animation since February 2025. The BJP currently commands the support of 37 MLAs. While the party had won 32 seats in the 2022 assembly elections, five Janata Dal (United) MLAs later defected to the BJP. Other parties in the assembly include the National People’s Party, Naga People’s Front, Congress, Kuki People’s Alliance, Janata Dal (United), and independents. One seat remains vacant following the death of an MLA.

Profile of Yumnam Khemchand Singh

Yumnam Khemchand Singh, 61, represents the Singjamei assembly constituency in Imphal West district. He served as Speaker of the Manipur Assembly from 2017 to 2022 and later became a cabinet minister in the second government led by former Chief Minister N Biren Singh. Until the imposition of President’s Rule, he handled key portfolios including municipal administration and housing development, rural development and panchayati raj, and education. Within the BJP, he is regarded as a non-polarising leader with strong organisational skills.

Important Facts for Exams

• President’s Rule in Manipur was imposed in February 2025 and completes one year on February 13, 2026.
• The Manipur Legislative Assembly has 60 seats; a simple majority requires 31 MLAs.
• Yumnam Khemchand Singh earlier served as Speaker of the Manipur Assembly from 2017–2022.
• Under Article 356 of the Constitution, assemblies can remain suspended without dissolution.

Administrative Outlook and Leadership Style

Party sources describe Khemchand as a steady administrative figure capable of bridging internal factions during a sensitive phase for Manipur. A former businessman and trained Taekwondo practitioner, he was recently honoured by the Global Traditional Taekwondo Federation in South Korea. His elevation signals the BJP’s preference for organisational discipline and administrative continuity as Manipur prepares to return to elected governance.