Manipur Chief Minister Y. Khemchand Singh asked everyone to stay calm and avoid violence following protests in Kuki-majority districts. The demonstrations started after three Kuki-Zo-Hmar MLAs joined the BJP-led government, causing anger among community members. Mr. Singh, who became Chief Minister on February 4, 2026, held a Cabinet meeting in Imphal to review the situation. He said, "Chaired a review meeting with Hon’ble Ministers and senior officials this evening at my Secretariat to take stock of the prevailing situation and to take necessary decisions for containing the unrest." Normal life was disrupted, especially in Churachandpur district, where two tribal bodies imposed a "total shutdown." Protesters in this district and others like Kangpokpi and Tengnoupal organized rallies against the three MLAs, accusing them of betraying the community. Effigies of the MLAs Nemcha Kipgen, L.M. Khaute, and N. Sanate were burnt. Mr. Singh emphasized, "Compassion remains our guiding principle, and the prospects for a better life for all are not jeopardised. I earnestly appeal to everyone to remain calm and to act in accordance with the Constitution and the law, and not to resort to violence." The protests gained momentum after Kuki MLA Nemcha Kipgen joined as Deputy Chief Minister. The Kuki Zo Council claimed the MLAs broke the January 13 Lungthu Resolution, which demanded a written assurance for a separate Union Territory with its own legislature before community members would join the government. Manipur had faced ethnic violence between Meitei and Kuki communities in May 2023, leading to President’s rule last year. The BJP-led government was formed after the Centre ended President’s rule on February 4, 2026. Yumnam Khemchand Singh became the 13th Chief Minister, with Nemcha Kipgen and N. Sanate sworn in as Deputy Chief Ministers. Kuki MLAs L.M. Khaute and N. Sanate were part of the team that claimed government formation rights. The situation remains tense as the state seeks peace and stability amid ongoing community demands and political challenges.