Manipur Assembly Elections 2022: N Biren Singh wins from Heingang seat

Imphal, Mar 10: The BJP set the ball rolling in Manipur, as BJP's incumbent Chief Minister N Biren Singh has won from the Heingang seat by around 18,000 seats.

As per the latest updated data from the Election Commission's website, the ruling BJP that contested solo in the northeastern state is leading in 21 seats, while the Congress is ahead in three seats.

While addressing the media, Singh said, "We'll take time to stake a claim to form govt, let the results be out. Our national leaders will decide on CM face, we'll focus on PM Modi's mantra of inclusive development."

Meanwhile, Usham Deben Singh defeated Congress rival Md Fajur Rahman by a slender margin of 50 votes in the Wabgai constituency, election officials said on Thursday.

The Janata Dal (United), which is ahead in three seats, also opened its account, winning the Tipaimukh constituency, as its nominee N Sanate got the better of his nearest BJP rival and former minister Chaltolien Amo by a margin of 1,249 votes.

The BJP is leading in 19 seats, Election Commission data showed.

The National People's Party is leading in four seats, while the Naga People's Front is ahead in seven seats.

Counting of votes for 60 assembly seats in Manipur began at 8 am on Thursday under tight security and strict adherence to COVID-19 protocols.

Trends were available with the EC for 41 constituencies at 1.30 pm.

The BJP had formed a government in Manipur in 2017 despite having just 21 seats, joining hands with the two local parties - the NPP and NPF. The saffron party's own strength later increased to 28.