The Republican Party of India (Athawale) has unanimously approved the continuation of Maheshwar Thounaojam in handling the party’s organisational affairs in Manipur, following a final decision taken at a National Core Committee meeting held in New Delhi on Monday.
The decision was announced by Vinod Nikalje, National Core Committee Member and North East In-charge of RPI (Athawale). He said the resolution was adopted at the party’s meeting convened at New Maharashtra Sadan, where organisational performance and future political strategy were reviewed in detail.
The meeting was attended by Ramdas Athawale, Union Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment and National President of RPI (Athawale), along with senior office-bearers, including National Secretary Maheshwar Thounaojam.
Focus on the Northeast, Manipur in Particular
Addressing the media after the meeting, Nikalje said the Core Committee devoted special attention to the party’s organisational growth in the North Eastern states, with Manipur receiving particular focus.
According to him, the committee reviewed the party’s activities in the state and expressed satisfaction over the organisational progress made under Thounaojam’s leadership. The panel noted that the party has witnessed increasing public engagement and growing trust among sections of the population in Manipur.
“The committee appreciated the manner in which the organisation has been strengthened in Manipur and unanimously resolved to continue extending full support to Maheshwar Thounaojam in all party-related affairs in the state,” Nikalje said.
Recognition as a Regional Party Highlighted
One of the key points discussed during the meeting was the recognition of RPI (Athawale) as a regional party by the State Election Commission of Manipur. The Core Committee credited this development to sustained organisational efforts and leadership at the state level.
Party leaders present at the meeting observed that the recognition has given the organisation greater visibility and legitimacy in Manipur’s political landscape, and noted that the central leadership stands firmly behind initiatives aimed at further consolidation.
The Core Committee resolution assured that there would be no organisational hindrance to Thounaojam’s work in Manipur and reaffirmed confidence in his leadership and commitment.
Thounaojam Responds
Speaking after the decision, Maheshwar Thounaojam said the collective assurance from the National Core Committee has strengthened his resolve to continue working for the party in Manipur.
He remarked that despite RPI (Athawale) not functioning under a rigid high-command culture, the leadership has consistently supported him, particularly during politically challenging periods in the state.
“The confidence shown by the Core Committee is encouraging. It reinforces my commitment to strengthening the party’s presence and organisational base in Manipur,” he said.
The decision is being seen as a signal of internal clarity and organisational continuity within RPI (Athawale) at a time when political alignments in Manipur remain fluid.