Imphal, February 5: The 7th Session of the 12th Manipur Legislative Assembly commenced on Thursday with Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla addressing the inaugural sitting of the House. Commending the people of Manipur for their resilience and patience, the Governor emphasised the need for understanding, cooperation and collective effort to restore harmony and advance shared prosperity in the state.
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| Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla addressing the inaugural sitting of the House |
In his address, Bhalla highlighted key initiatives undertaken by the government to address the ongoing impasse and steer Manipur towards a stronger and more inclusive future. He called for sustained commitment to peace and unity as the state navigates a challenging phase.
Later in the day, the House expressed its confidence in the Council of Ministers after a motion of confidence was moved by the Leader of the House and Chief Minister Y. Khemchand Singh. The session was subsequently adjourned sine die.
Of the 60-member Assembly, one seat is currently vacant. A total of 52 MLAs marked attendance during the session, with three members - Deputy Chief Minister Nemcha Kipgen, BJP MLA Ngursanglur Sanate and BJP MLA L.M. Khaute - participating virtually. Seven members were absent.
During the proceedings, Chief Minister Khemchand Singh presented the 9th Report of the Business Advisory Committee, 2026, which was adopted by the House along with the proposed allocation of time for business.
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The BJP currently holds 37 seats in the Assembly. The party had won 32 seats in the 2022 Assembly elections, with five MLAs later joining from the JD(U). Its allies include six MLAs from the National People’s Party (NPP), five from the Naga People’s Front (NPF), two from the Kuki People’s Alliance (KPA), one from the JD(U), and three Independents - Nishikant Sapam (Keisamthong), J. Kuko Sha (Karong-ST) and Haokholet Kipgen (Saitu-ST). One seat remains vacant following the death of NPP MLA N. Kayisii.
The session concluded with the House reiterating its commitment to legislative business amid efforts to stabilise governance in the state.
