Ex-Home Secretary Ajay Kumar Bhalla Takes Oath as Manipur Governor, CM Hope for Swift Return of Peace
First Published: 3rd January, 2025 12:21 IST
Chief Minister N Biren Singh emphasised the significance of Bhalla’s appointment in addressing the ongoing challenges in Manipur.
Ajay Kumar Bhalla, former Union Home Secretary, was sworn in as the Governor of Manipur on Friday. The oath of office was administered by Chief Justice of Manipur High Court, Justice D Krishnakumar at a solemn ceremony held at the Raj Bhavan in Imphal.
Bhalla succeeds Lakshman Prasad Acharya, who had been serving as the Governor-in-charge of Manipur since July last year. He is the third Governor appointed by the Government of India following the outbreak of violence in Manipur. The swearing in ceremony was attended by Chief Minister N Biren Singh, Assembly Speaker Th Satyabrata Singh, council of ministers, Rajya Sabha MP Maharaja Sanajaoba Leishemba, MLAs, Congress Legislature Party leader Okram Ibobi Singh, and Manipur Congress president, MLA Keisham Meghachandra Singh.
Chief Minister N Biren Singh emphasised the significance of Bhalla’s appointment in addressing the ongoing challenges in Manipur. “This new appointment reflects the seriousness of the central government in bringing peace and normalcy to the state. Conflict in Manipur cannot be solved overnight, but steps are being taken gradually to restore stability. Newly appointed governor Ajay Bhalla knows the issue of Manipur very well. I look forward to working with him for the welfare, prosperity, and peace of our state,” he stated.
Expressing his enthusiasm for the new Governor’s appointment, Chief Minister N Biren Singh extended his congratulations, saying, “I extend my heartfelt congratulations and a warm welcome to Ajay Kumar Bhalla on being appointed as the Hon’ble Governor of Manipur.”
He also highlighted his optimism about Bhalla’s leadership. “I am confident that his guidance and leadership will further strengthen the development, harmony, and progress of our state,” N. Biren Singh added.
Ajay Bhalla’s appointment comes at a crucial time for Manipur, as the state continues to grapple with ethnic conflicts between Meetei and Kuki since May 3, 2023. His extensive administrative experience is expected to play an important role in fostering unity and driving the state toward a peaceful resolution of its issues.
Born on November 26, 1960, in Jalandhar, Punjab, Ajay Kumar Bhalla is a retired IAS officer from the Assam-Meghalaya cadre of the 1984 batch. He previously served as the Union Home Secretary of India from August 23, 2019, to August 22, 2024. Bhalla has an extensive career in public administration, having handled key positions such as Secretary in the Ministry of Power, Director General of Foreign Trade, and Joint Secretary in the Ministry of Coal.
Also Read: Manipur Rifles Personnel Arrested With 10.2 Kg Of WY Tablets in Kakching
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