'Failed to resolve crisis': NPP pulls out of the govt

The Conrad Sangma-led National People's Party (NPP) on Sunday withdrew its support from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led Manipur government, saying that the Biren Singh government has "completely failed to resolve the crisis and restore normalcy" in the strife-torn northeastern state.

- Thomas Ngangom

"The National People's Party would like to convey its deep concern over the prevailing law and order situation in the State of Manipur. In the last few days, we have seen the situation further deteriorate where many more innocent lives have been lost and people in the State are going through immense suffering," the party said in a letter addressed to BJP president JP Nadda.

It added: "We strongly feel that the Manipur State Government under the leadership of Shri Biren Singh has completely failed to resolve the crisis and restore normalcy. Keeping the current situation in mind, the National People's Party has decided to withdraw its support to the Biren Singh led Government in the State of Manipur, with immediate effect."

The NPP holds seven seats in the 60-member legislative assembly, and the withdrawal of support will not affect the stability of the government as the BJP enjoys absolute majority in the House with its 32 legislators.