BJP MLA Yumnam Khemchand Singh has been selected as the Leader of the BJP Legislature Party in Manipur, a move that signals the likely return of an elected government in the border state, where President’s Rule is set to complete one year on February 13.

The decision was finalised following a high-level meeting in Delhi involving Manipur BJP legislators and leaders from National Democratic Alliance (NDA) allies. Senior BJP leaders, including central observer Tarun Chugh and the party’s northeast coordinator Sambit Patra, were present during the discussions.

At 61, Khemchand is viewed as a consensus-driven and non-controversial choice, considered acceptable to different factions within the party during a sensitive political phase. Party sources say he is seen as a calm administrator who prioritises organisational discipline and stability over political grandstanding.

Manipur’s legislative assembly has remained inactive since President’s Rule was imposed in February 2025, although it has not been dissolved. The BJP currently holds the largest number of seats in the 60-member House, with 37 MLAs. Of these, 32 were elected in 2022, while five later joined the party after defecting from Janata Dal (United).

Other members in the assembly include representatives from the National People’s Party, Naga People’s Front, Congress, Kuki People’s Alliance, JD(U), and independent candidates. One seat remains vacant following the passing of an MLA.

Profile: Yumnam Khemchand Singh

Khemchand represents the Singjamei constituency in Imphal West. He served as a cabinet minister in the previous BJP-led government under former Chief Minister N Biren Singh from 2022 until President’s Rule came into force in 2025. During his tenure, he managed key departments such as municipal administration, housing, rural development, panchayati raj, and education.

Earlier, he was Speaker of the Manipur Legislative Assembly between 2017 and 2022. Known within the BJP for his strong grassroots network and organisational skills, Khemchand transitioned into politics after a career in business.

Apart from his political work, he has a background in Taekwondo, having trained since his teenage years. Recently, he received international recognition from the Global Traditional Taekwondo Federation in South Korea for his long-standing dedication to the martial art.