IMPHAL : Senior Manipur BJP leader Elangbam Johnson resigned from the Bharatiya Janata Party on Thursday, alleging that the government had failed to meet public expectations during the prolonged ethnic conflict in the state.

Addressing a press conference in Imphal, Johnson – who had contested the 2022 Assembly elections on a BJP ticket – announced that he was stepping down from both the party’s primary membership and his position as state spokesperson.

“Since May 3, 2023, we have not been able to move in accordance with the wishes of the people. After consultations with my workers in Keisamthong, I have decided to resign from the BJP,” he said.

Johnson said the government’s inability to adequately respond to the aspirations and concerns of the public following the outbreak of ethnic violence was the key reason behind his decision.

The ethnic conflict between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities, which erupted in May 2023, has left more than 260 people dead and displaced thousands across the state, triggering prolonged political and humanitarian concerns.

His resignation comes amid continuing unrest and growing criticism over the handling of the security situation and reconciliation efforts in Manipur.

The development is being viewed as politically significant as the BJP continues to face pressure over governance and law-and-order challenges linked to the ongoing crisis.