Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh and Deputy Chief Ministers Losii Dikho and Nemcha Kipgen were expected to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi, in what would be their first reported in-person meeting together in months.
The proposed meeting was reportedly convened at the instance of the BJP leadership. However, the exact date and time of the meeting with the Prime Minister had not been officially confirmed at the time of reporting.
Khemchand and Nemcha Kipgen travelled to New Delhi on October 7, while reports indicated that Losii Dikho was still in Imphal at the time of filing.
The meeting comes amid continuing tensions between Naga and Kuki communities in Manipur. Losii Dikho represents the Naga community, while Nemcha Kipgen represents the Kuki community, making their participation significant in the context of the ongoing situation.
Among the issues expected to figure in discussions are the prevailing inter-community tensions, as well as matters concerning NRC, the Census and development initiatives. These agenda points, however, remain subject to confirmation.
The relationship between the two Deputy Chief Ministers has also faced political strain. In September, all nine members of the Naga Legislators’ Forum abstained from the final sitting of the State Assembly session, citing their demand for justice in the killing of six Naga civilians and raising allegations concerning Nemcha Kipgen’s husband, which remain allegations subject to investigation and due process.
Losii Dikho had also skipped a Cabinet meeting in September following Nemcha Kipgen’s participation, citing the collective position of the Naga Legislators’ Forum.
