Ukhrul, Feb 7: The fate of five MLAs, who were elected on Janata Dal (United), JD(U), tickets but later joined the BJP, now hangs in the balance as Manipur Legislative Assembly Speaker today reserved judgment on their disqualification case. The final hearing was conducted before the Speaker’s Tribunal on Friday, marking the last step in a legal battle that has been dragging on since 2022.
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The five defected MLAs—Thangmeiband MLA Khumukcham Joykisan, Tipaimukh MLA Ngursanglur Sanate, Jiribam MLA Md Achab Uddin, Wangkhei MLA Thangjam Arunkumar, and Churachandpur MLA LM Khaute face disqualification under the 10th Schedule of the Constitution, which deals with anti-defection laws. The case was filed by MPCC Vice President Hareshwar Goshwami, along with two additional petitions from M. Dorendro and M. Surjit against MLA Kh. Joykisan.
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Following the final hearing, petitioners’ advocate N. Bhupenda expressed optimism, stating, “Justice has been long overdue. The arguments from both sides have been heard, and now it is up to the Speaker to decide whether these MLAs should be disqualified.”
With the verdict now reserved, all eyes are on the Speaker’s ruling, which could significantly impact Manipur’s political landscape. If the five MLAs are disqualified, it could trigger by-elections and shift the balance of power in the Assembly.
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