Imphal, Oct 20 (IANS): The anti-incumbency factor is worrying the ruling Congress in Manipur, Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh has said.

Ibobi Singh, who has been in power for three consecutive terms, said the anti-incumbency feelings may tilt the balance in the January assembly polls. 

The Congress leader admitted to IANS in an interview that there appeared to be a gap between the performance of the Congress government in Manipur and the expectations of the people. 

"If our party can overcome this factor, it will win at least 50 seats in the 60-member house," he said. 

"In 2002, we got 20 seats and 31 in 2007. We created a political record in the state by winning 42 seats in 2012.

"This time we are expecting about 38 seats, even after conceding the anti-incumbency factor. However it is for the voters to decide," he added. 

Asked about the resignation of three Congress MLAs to join the BJP, he said the development was of no consequence. 

"All of them had been ministers for over 10 years. Perhaps they were not happy as they were dropped from the ministry. But four Trinamool MLAs have joined us a few days back."

The Chief Minister admitted that there were some lapses in the police recruitment tests. This is why the government cancelled the test results and held fresh tests. 

He added that the appointment of ranking officials had been entrusted to Manipur Public Service Commission.