Imphal: Manipur formally exited months of central rule on Wednesday as senior BJP leader Yumnam Khemchand Singh was sworn in as the state’s new Chief Minister, bringing an end to President’s Rule and restoring an elected government in the violence-hit northeastern state.

The oath of office and secrecy was administered by Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla at a ceremony held at the Raj Bhavan, marking a crucial political reset for Manipur after a prolonged period of uncertainty.

Singh, a legislator from Singjamei and a trusted aide of former Chief Minister N. Biren Singh, staked his claim to form the government earlier this week. His elevation came after the BJP-led NDA leadership finalised the choice in New Delhi, following which he was unanimously elected leader of the BJP legislative party.

In a move aimed at reflecting Manipur’s ethnic diversity, two Deputy Chief Ministers were sworn in alongside him. BJP leader Nemcha Kipgen, representing the Kuki community, took oath virtually from New Delhi, becoming the first woman Deputy Chief Minister from the Kuki-Zo community in the state. Losii Dikho of the Naga People’s Front, a prominent Naga leader, was also appointed Deputy CM.

The new council of ministers further includes Govindas Konthoujam from the BJP and Kh Loken of the National People’s Party, indicating a coalition-driven approach in governance.

Manipur had been under President’s Rule since February 2025, following the resignation of N. Biren Singh amid ongoing ethnic tensions. Parliament had cleared a six-month extension of central rule, which was due to lapse later this month, making the formation of a new government time-sensitive.

At 62, Khemchand Singh brings significant legislative and administrative experience to the top post. He is serving his second term as an MLA and previously held the position of Speaker of the Manipur Legislative Assembly between 2017 and 2022. He later managed important departments such as Rural Development, Panchayati Raj, and Education.

Beginning his political journey in 2002, Singh joined the BJP in 2013 and steadily rose through the ranks. Notably, during the period of ethnic unrest, he emerged as the only Meitei MLA to visit a Kuki-Zo relief camp, a gesture that drew attention across political lines.