BJP suffers jolt in Manipur as MLA Khumukcham Joykisan Singh joins Congress

GUWAHATI: In volatile situation in Manipur, BJP suffered a big blow as Khumukcham Joykisan Singh the first MLA of BJP joined congress.

Singh joined in a function in Imphal and cited alleged apathy of the party leadership towards Manipur which is witnessing turbulent times for his quitting the Saffron party. Joykisan was elected from Thangmeiband assembly consistency in by polls in 2015. Manipur is going to polls next year.

BJP has emerged as the strong contender of congress. Congress is ruling the state for third consecutive term.

Centre has rushed around 4,000 paramilitary personnel to Manipur in the wake of violence following economic blockade on national highways connecting the state.

Economic blockade imposed by the Union Naga Council (UNC) on two national highways since November 1 last has ravaged the economy of the state.

Several petrol pumps are dry now. UNC is demanding roll back of the formation of Sadar Hills ( Kangpokpi) and Jiribam districts and release of two of its leaders arrested in wake of the blockade.

UNC urged the central government for imposition President’s Rule in Manipur. UNC leaders meet Union Home minister, Rajnath Singh on Tuesday.

Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) on Wednesday reiterated its stand of imposing total blockade on all Manipur bound vehicles in the Naga inhabited area.