Manipur Deputy CM threatens government exit over rival's conduct

Deputy Chief Minister Losii Dikho, along with eight Naga Members of Legislative Assembly, has escalated political tensions in Manipur by threatening to pull out of the State government unless the Centre takes decisive action against Deputy Chief Minister Nemcha Kipgen.

The ultimatum signals a significant rift within the ruling BJP-led coalition in the northeastern State, which has been grappling with ethnic and factional tensions. Dikho's move reflects growing discontent among legislators from the Naga community, who comprise a crucial voting bloc in the State assembly.

The exact nature of grievances against Kipgen remains contentious, but the threat to withdraw support indicates deep internal divisions that could jeopardize the government's stability. With the coalition's numerical strength already precarious, any exodus of legislators could force a political realignment in the State.

The development underscores the delicate balance maintained by the BJP government in Manipur, where managing competing ethnic and regional interests has proven increasingly challenging. The Centre's response to these demands may prove critical in determining the government's immediate future and communal peace in the State.