After high drama, Ibobi Singh resigns as Manipur CM

Outgoing Manipur Chief Minister O Ibobi Singh resigned today after Governor Najma Heptullah said she could not start the process of government formation in the state that has got a hung Assembly, till he quits.

Singh, who had earlier today said he would resign by tomorrow, submitted his resignation papers to the Governor, Deputy Chief Minister Gaikhangam told PTI. Singh has been arguing that Congress being the single largest party with 28 seats, he should be given the first opportunity to form the government. "I am ready for a floor test and I have the numbers with me," said Singh.

Heptullah, however, said earlier that she could only start the process of government formation once the incumbent chief minister resigned as per norms. "I have not received till today any resignation from the chief minister (O Ibobi Singh) though I told him yesterday I can start the process of government formation only after you resign," Heptullah said. As per rules, until the present chief minister resigns, the process of government formation cannot be started, said a highly-placed Raj Bhavan source.

Singh, who has been serving as chief minister for 15 years since 2002, was elected as leader of the Congress Legislature Party (CLP) yesterday and had staked claim to form the government late last night.