Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh recently met Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla upon his return from New Delhi, where discussions with Union Home Minister Amit Shah took place. The Chief Minister also engaged in separate meetings with senior civil and Army officials to deliberate on various matters, including security concerns. The focus of the meeting between the Governor and the Chief Minister centered largely on the law and order situation in Manipur.
Sources suggest that the discussions might be related to a potential expansion of the state cabinet, as seven ministerial positions are currently vacant. Additionally, the Chief Minister updated the Governor on recent security developments, including plans to raise an additional battalion of Manipur Rifles to enhance the state’s policing capabilities. This decision comes following an assurance from the Union Home Minister.
During the meeting in New Delhi, the Union Home Minister emphasized the need for expediting peace initiatives and strengthening community relations in Manipur. A detailed review of the state’s law and order situation was also conducted. The Union Home Minister granted preliminary approval for the establishment of a Manipur Rifles unit and requested a formal proposal from the Chief Minister.
Chief Minister Khemchand Singh, along with Deputy Chief Ministers Nemcha Kipgen and Losii Dikho, had previously met the Union Home Minister to address various issues, including the rehabilitation of Internally Displaced Persons affected by ethnic violence.
