Former Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh's statement regarding Manipur's status has sparked controversy and debate. The statement suggests that Manipur was never a part of India before it became a union territory in 1949. The political implications of this statement are significant, as it raises questions about the legitimacy of India's hold over Manipur and the rights of the people residing there. Some of the legal and political implications of this statement include the following:

• It challenges India's claim over Manipur's territory and could potentially fuel separatist movements in the state.
• It could also lead to legal challenges and debates about Manipur's status within the Indian union, potentially leading to a referendum or other forms of democratic decision-making about the state's future.
• This statement could also impact relations between the Manipur state government and the central government, particularly within the context of the ongoing debate around the Indian federal structure and states’ rights.

In summary, Okram Ibobi Singh's statement regarding Manipur's status has legal and political implications, raising questions about the legitimacy of Indian control over the state and potentially fueling separatist movements and legal challenges.