For the first time since ethnic violence erupted in Manipur in May 2023, six out of nine Kuki-Zo-Hmar MLAs participated in the state Legislative Assembly’s budget session via virtual mode. The giant TV screen in the Assembly hall displayed the live attendance of these tribal MLAs during the proceedings. Notable attendees included Deputy Chief Minister Nemcha Kipgen, L.M. Khaute, Letzamang Haokip, Ngursanglur Sanate, Kimneo Haokip Hansing, and Haokholet Kipgen.
Leader of the House and Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh viewed the MLAs’ participation as a positive step towards normalizing the situation in Manipur. He encouraged such initiatives, emphasizing the importance of this inclusive approach. State Assembly Speaker Thokchom Satyabrata Singh also welcomed the presence of the six Kuki-Zo-Hmar MLAs on the first day of the budget session, considering it a positive development.
During the trust vote for Chief Minister Khemchand Singh on February 5, three Kuki-Zo-Hmar MLAs engaged in the session through video conference. Letpao Haokip, however, requested leave due to illness during the budget session, which was unanimously granted by the House. The state government had made extensive arrangements for the tribal MLAs to participate in the session via video conference, facilitated by various centers including the National Informatics Centre and Manipur Bhawans in different locations.
Participating in discussions on obituary references, L.M. Khaute, representing the Churachandpur district, paid tribute to departed leaders through video conference. The Assembly expressed deep sorrow over the demise of former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, former Manipur Governor La Ganesan, and ten former MLAs, observing a two-minute silence in their honor. Former Chief Minister O. Ibobi Singh also conveyed his condolences over the loss of these leaders who had made significant contributions in their respective fields.
The budget session is scheduled to run until March 17, comprising a total of seven sittings. Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh is expected to present the state budget for the 2026–27 financial year during this ongoing Assembly session.
