Imphal | Former Manipur chief minister N Biren Singh and BJP MLA K Joykishan Singh left for New Delhi on Sunday amid indications that the party’s central leadership may hold discussions on a possible expansion of the state council of ministers and the prevailing political situation in Manipur.

Biren Singh confirmed to reporters at Imphal airport that he was travelling to the national capital. K Joykishan Singh, the BJP legislator from Thangmeiband, also departed for Delhi at around 1 pm. A senior BJP functionary said the two leaders were expected to meet senior party leaders in Delhi for consultations on a possible cabinet expansion and other developments in the state.

Manipur Home Minister Govindas Konthoujam was also seen at the Imphal airport. However, he did not disclose his destination or provide details about his travel plans when approached by mediapersons. The reported consultations come amid ongoing political developments in Manipur, where the BJP-led government is dealing with the fallout of the ethnic conflict that erupted in May 2023.

The possible cabinet expansion is expected to focus on the composition of the council of ministers and could involve discussions on political and organisational matters within the state BJP. The Delhi visit by senior BJP leaders from Manipur has fuelled speculation about impending changes in the state government. However, there has been no formal announcement from the party or the state government regarding a cabinet expansion so far.

Further consultations with the BJP’s central leadership are expected to determine the timing and composition of any proposed expansion.