The first crack in the month-old Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led coalition government in Manipur appeared when Health Minister Langpoklakpam Jayentakumar handed in his resignation to Chief Minister N. Biren Singh on Thursday night, shortly after Health Director Okram Ibomcha was suspended from the post by the Chief Minister, who heads the Department of Personnel.
Mr. Singh has not as yet accepted the resignation. Highly placed sources said on Saturday that hectic efforts were on to sort out the “passing phase”. Meanwhile, Mr. Singh has left for Delhi to consult with senior BJP leaders. Though an understanding has been “reached”, indications are that the matter shall be settled after Mr. Singh’s return from Delhi. Sources said Mr. Jayentakumar had resented “too much of interference” by the Chief Minister. The CM appointed a new Advocate-General from outside the State without consulting Mr. Jayentakumar, who holds the Law portfolio. Mr. Singh also overlooked the Health Minister’s recommendation for interim Health Director.
The coalition Ministry was formed on March 15 and all four MLAs of the National People’s Party, including Mr. Jayentakumar, are in the Cabinet.
