Imphal: Manipur’s Forest and Environment Minister, Thongam Biswajit Singh, dismissed media reports about the possible removal of Chief Minister N Biren Singh, denying knowledge of any leadership change in the state government.
During a press briefing after the 133rd Manipur Police Raising Day ceremony, Biswajit stated he had no information regarding the matter and refrained from commenting further.
Speculations over a leadership shift have been swirling, intensified by the circulation of a six-page memorandum, allegedly signed by 19 state BJP legislators, calling for N Biren Singh’s removal from the chief ministerial post.
The letter was reportedly submitted to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. However, Biswajit, whose name was listed among the signatories, distanced himself from the document. “I have no idea about any leadership change or the two-page memorandum circulating in the media. I cannot verify the authenticity of the letter as I am not an expert,” he remarked.
Biswajit’s comments came during the observance of the 133rd Manipur Police Raising Day at the 1st Bn Manipur Rifles Ground, where he praised the police force for their dedication to combating the drug trade and maintaining law and order.
“Without the support of the police, the forest department alone cannot prevent the destruction of forests caused by illegal poppy cultivation. Their role in controlling this issue is commendable,” Biswajit noted.
Director General of Police (DGP) Manipur, Rajiv Singh, echoed Biswajit’s sentiments, highlighting the police force’s continuous efforts to restore peace and normalcy in the state.
“Manipur has faced a challenging period over the last year and a half, but the situation is gradually improving. Violent incidents have drastically reduced, except for a few sporadic occurrences,” said Singh.
He further urged communities to engage in peaceful dialogue, stating, “Everyone desires peace, and it can only be achieved by reducing the weaponisation of society. We need the support and cooperation of the people to bring lasting peace to Manipur.”
During the ceremony, several police personnel and departments were recognized for their exemplary service:
• Lamphel Police Station was awarded the DGP Manipur Trophy for Best Police Station 2024.
• Sub Inspectors L Sarjubala (Bishnupur Women Police Station) and Vashum Meena (Ukhrul Women Police Station) received the Best Police Officer Award 2024.
• Jiribam Police Station and Churachandpur Women Police Station jointly secured second place, while Patsoi Police Station (Imphal West) and Bishnupur Police Station shared third place.
• In the battalion category, the 1st Manipur Rifles Battalion was named Best Battalion for 2024, followed by the 2nd Manipur Rifles and the 8th Manipur Rifles (Leikhun, Chandel), which jointly took second place. The 8th Indian Reserve Battalion (Commando), Khabeisoi and the 5th Manipur Rifles, Khongjaron, secured third place.
The event was attended by several ministers, MLAs, and high-ranking officials from the state government and central forces, celebrating the dedication and resilience of the Manipur Police in ensuring peace and safety across the state.
Read More: Assam’s Cachar District Gears Up for By-Polls with Strict Directives for Smooth Electoral Process