Big jolt to Congress in Manipur, former president & 6-time MLA Konthoujam Govindas joins BJP

IMPHAL: In a major setback to the Congress party in Manipur, veteran leader Govindas Kanthoujam joined the rival Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in its headquarters in New Delhi.

Konthoujam Govindas is a veteran congressman and is among the most affluent n influential congress leader in the state.

Speaking on the occasion, Manipur's chief minister N Biren Singh lavished praise on prime minister Narendra Modi for his developmental pursuits in the region.

"Northeast Indians are surprised that 5 people from the region have been chosen as Ministers. This has never happened in the history of India. There is such change in the Northeast -- be it in development of peace."

"Not only is Konthoujam Govindas known in Manipur, he is a known face in Northeast and has played an important role over the years," BJP spokesperson Sambit Patra said at the induction ceremony, adding the senior leader has chosen to join the BJP "seeing Modi's developmental works...especially in the Northeast."

Also Read: Most Northeast States Have Border Issues With Assam; Arunachal MLA Urges All-Party…

Earlier in the day, BJP national spokesperson Anil Baluni hinted that an “eminent personality” would be joining the party and an announcement would follow shortly.

“An eminent personality will join BJP today (Sunday) 01 August, 12 noon at BJP HQ, 6A DDU Marg, New Delhi,” Baluni tweeted.

Govindas Konthoujam resigned as Manipur MLA as well as from the primary membership of MPCC last month, delivering a big blow to the party ahead of state assembly elections next year.

Now, the Manipur assembly has an effective strength of 56 in which the BJP has 25 members and the Congress 16 after Konthoujam Govindas9resignation from the House.

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