Imphal: The sudden arrival of B.L. Santosh, BJP National General Secretary (Organisation), and Sambit Patra, the party’s Northeast Coordinator, in Imphal on Wednesday has sparked intense political speculation that the central leadership may be preparing the ground for the restoration of an elected government in Manipur.

Their visit comes at a crucial political moment. Manipur has been under President’s Rule since February 13, 2025, following the resignation of former Chief Minister N. Biren Singh amid ethnic unrest and administrative paralysis. With central rule extended until February 2026, voices within the BJP are growing louder for the revival of a “popular government” in the state.

According to party sources, Santosh has been tasked with assessing the political mood within the Manipur BJP unit, holding one-on-one meetings with legislators, and preparing a detailed report for the party’s national leadership.

A series of closed-door discussions are being held with BJP and allied MLAs to explore leadership options, potential realignments, and the feasibility of forming an interim government ahead of the 2027 Assembly elections.

Political observers say the visit appears to be a strategic move to gauge the strength and unity of BJP legislators. Despite the party’s numerical advantage, internal divisions and the fragile law-and-order situation have so far made the Centre hesitant to lift President’s Rule.

Former Chief Minister N. Biren Singh has also reignited debate on the issue. Speaking to reporters, he said that 26 BJP MLAs had recently met with Santosh and Patra to press for the formation of a “popular government.” “We are united in this demand, and the leadership has assured us that they are considering it,” Biren stated.

Echoing this sentiment, BJP MLA Kh. Robindro Singh said legislators wanted a government that “reflects the aspirations of the people,” adding that restoring a representative government would be key to rebuilding trust and stability in the strife-torn state.

Analysts, however, remain divided on the visit’s implications. Some interpret it as a morale-boosting exercise aimed at consolidating party unity, while others view it as a possible prelude to reintroducing civilian governance — a move that could help the Centre counter growing criticism over prolonged central rule.

Although no formal announcement has been made, political circles in Imphal believe the engagements of Santosh and Patra in the coming days will be critical in determining whether Manipur is ready to transition from administrative control back to an elected government — a step that could reshape the state’s fragile political landscape.