Yumnam Khemchand Singh is poised to become the next Chief Minister of Manipur, marking a significant leadership change backed by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). This decision comes after a period of President's Rule in the state, which was imposed in February 2025 amidst widespread ethnic violence. The BJP's move to elect Yumnam Khemchand as the leader of the legislative party paves the way for the formation of a new government in Manipur.

Yumnam Khemchand Singh, a senior politician from the BJP, has a long-standing career in Manipur's political arena. Born on March 1, 1963, the 62-year-old has been a Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) representing the Singjamei constituency in the Imphal West district, having been elected in both 2017 and 2022. His previous roles include serving as the Speaker of the Manipur Legislative Assembly from 2017 to 2022. Between 2022 and 2025, he held key ministerial portfolios, including Minister for Municipal Administration and Housing Development (MAHUD), Rural Development and Panchayati Raj, and Education.

The decision to appoint Yumnam Khemchand as Chief Minister was made during the Manipur NDA legislative party meeting in Delhi. This development occurs just days before the end of the one-year period of President's Rule in the state. The imposition of President's Rule followed large-scale ethnic violence between the Meitei and Kuki Zo people. Despite the absence of an elected government, the assembly was not dissolved, meaning the new government can remain in place until 2027, when the current House's tenure concludes.

In the 60-seat Manipur assembly, the BJP holds a strong majority with 37 seats. Key partners include the National People's Party (NPP) with seven seats. The opposition holds 16 seats, including the National People's Party (6), Congress (5), independents (3), and two from KPA.

Beyond his political career, Yumnam Khemchand Singh is also known for his involvement in promoting the martial art of Taekwondo. He made history in late 2025 by becoming the first Indian to receive the 5th Dan black belt in traditional Taekwondo, awarded by the Global Traditional Taekwondo Federation in Seoul.

Yumnam Khemchand's appointment as Chief Minister signifies a new chapter for Manipur, as the BJP aims to restore stability and address the challenges facing the state after a period of unrest..