IMPHAL/UKHRUL: National People’s Party (NPP) national president and Meghalaya chief minister Conrad K. Sangma on Saturday expressed confidence that the party is emerging as a strong regional alternative in Manipur, saying people are increasingly looking for a political force that understands the aspirations and concerns of the Northeast.
Speaking at a press conference after concluding his two-day visit to the state, Sangma said the NPP held a series of organisational meetings, inaugurated its new Manipur state office at Mantripukhri, met Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh and later called on the Governor to discuss issues concerning the state.
Also read Conrad Sangma Calls for Fair Probe into NEET Paper Leak, Stands in Solidarity with Manipur
During his visit, Conrad Sangma also attended the NPP annual convention at the Manipur State Film Development Society (MSFDS), where he addressed members and stressed the importance of strengthening grassroots organisations. On the occasion, several individuals were formally inducted into the National People’s Party in his presence, further expanding the party’s organisational base ahead of the 2027 Assembly elections.
Conrad Sangma said the prevailing situation in Manipur remained the biggest concern raised during his interactions with party leaders and the public. He stressed that rebuilding trust among communities, maintaining law and order, and ensuring economic revival through employment generation and livelihood opportunities would be crucial for restoring lasting peace in the state.
Urging all communities to “give peace a chance”, Conrad Sangma said dialogue, reconciliation and mutual trust were essential to move Manipur forward. He added that while the situation remained complex, sustained efforts by all stakeholders could gradually restore normalcy.
Highlighting the party’s growth, Conrad Sangma said the NPP had gained significant organisational strength since 2017 and was witnessing increasing public confidence. While the party is strengthening its presence in all 60 Assembly constituencies, he said the final decision on the number of seats to be contested in the 2027 elections would be taken by the party’s election committee.
Also read Conrad Sangma Inaugurates NPP Manipur State Office, Begins Two-Day Visit to Imphal
On alliances, Conrad Sangma made it clear that the NPP would not enter into any pre-poll alliance for the 2027 Manipur Assembly elections, maintaining that every political party should seek an independent mandate from the people. He, however, said any post-poll decision would depend on the mandate delivered by the electorate.
Conrad Sangma also reiterated that the concerns of internally displaced persons (IDPs) would continue to be raised with the Centre and expressed hope that ongoing efforts by the state and Central governments would enable displaced families to return to their homes before the next Assembly elections.
