BJP Gains Political Boost in Manipur with Retired IRS Officer's Joining

In a political boost for the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Manipur’s Tamenglong district , which is predominantly inhabited by the Naga community, retired Indian Revenue Service (IRS) officer Gaigongdin Panmei formally joined the party on Thursday. Panmei was inducted at the BJP state headquarters, Thambal Sanglen, Nityaipat Chuthek, in the presence of Rajya Sabha MP and BJP Manipur Pradesh President A. Sharda Devi . The party welcomed Panmei, the former Principal Director General of the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs, along with several senior leaders from the region. Speaking after his induction, Panmei said he joined the party due to its inclusive governance, visionary leadership and commitment towards building a developed nation by 2047. Addressing the media following the ceremony, Sharda Devi said, “I extend my heartfelt welcome to Shri Gaigongdin Panmei as he joins the BJP family. His experience, commitment to public service and dedication to the welfare of the people will undoubtedly strengthen our collective efforts towards the development of Manipur and the vision of Viksit Bharat under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.” Political observers believe the BJP has begun preparations for the next Manipur Legislative Assembly election, which is expected to be held between February and March 2027 to elect all 60 members of the Assembly. Yumnam Khemchand Singh is the incumbent Chief Minister of Manipur. In a post on X, A. Sharda Devi said the BJP’s central leadership remains committed to safeguarding Manipur’s territorial integrity. She ruled out the possibility of a separate administration being created in the state amid ongoing criticism and public frustration over the ethnic conflict. She said prolonged violence has affected development and urged communities across Manipur to choose dialogue and reconciliation over division, while asserting that the BJP remains committed to protecting the state’s interests.