Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh resigned on Sunday, stepping down after over 21 months of turmoil and violence between the Meitei and Kuki communities in the state.

The violence, which began on May 3, 2023, was triggered by a rally organized by the All Tribal Students Union of Manipur (ATSUM) following a Manipur High Court order to consider granting Scheduled Tribe status to the Meitei community. Singh, accompanied by BJP president A. Sharda, BJP North East Manipur in-charge Sambit Patra, and at least 19 MLAs, submitted his resignation to Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla.

In his resignation letter, Singh expressed his gratitude to the people of Manipur and acknowledged the central government’s support in addressing the state’s challenges. He urged continued focus on critical issues, including the preservation of Manipur’s territorial integrity, combating illegal immigration, addressing drug trafficking, and enhancing border security.

Singh had served as Chief Minister since 2022, following the NDA alliance’s victory in the state elections. His resignation comes as the state grapples with ongoing instability and unresolved communal tensions.