Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday introduced a statutory resolution in Parliament seeking to extend President’s Rule in Manipur for an additional six months. According to The Hindu, the extension, effective from August 13, 2025, will keep the conflict-disabled state under central administration until February 13, 2026. The state’s legislative assembly, whose term runs until 2027, remains in suspended animation.
Imposition and Continuation of Central Rule
President’s Rule was first imposed in Manipur on February 13, 2025, shortly after the resignation of Chief Minister N. Biren Singh. Singh stepped down amid escalating political instability, following revolts by Meitei legislators within his own party. With no viable leadership emerging, the Centre invoked Article 356 of the Constitution to suspend the state’s government and place it under direct governance by the Union through the Governor’s office.
Parliamentary Nod for Another Six Months
In Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha, Amit Shah formally presented the resolution, which stated the continuance of the February 13 proclamation for an additional six‑month period starting August 13, 2025. Parliament’s approval is essential under Article 356 for extending President’s Rule beyond the initial term. Once passed, all legislative and executive powers in Manipur will continue to be exercised by the Union government in consultation with the Governor.
Ethnic Violence, Displacement and Security Operations
Manipur continues to reel under the aftermath of prolonged ethnic violence that erupted in May 2023 between the majority Meitei population in the Imphal Valley and tribal Kuki‑Zo groups from the surrounding hills. Official figures show more than 250 fatalities and over 60,000 people displaced. While incidents of widespread violence have tapered in recent months, especially in foothill regions, deep-rooted grievances over land, quotas, and tribal identity remain unresolved.
Security forces have intensified operations against militant outfits across districts such as Imphal West, Bishnupur, Tengnoupal, and Chandel. In recent days alone, several militants have been arrested and illegal weapons—including improvised explosives and small arms—were seized during searches. A fresh crackdown aims to disband armed factions and ensure the return of displaced communities.
Political Pressure and Division Within the Alliance
Since April, several BJP- and NDA-aligned Meitei and Naga MLAs have called for the reinstatement of a popular government in Manipur. They argue that central rule has failed to address fundamental political and ethnic discontent. Their efforts to form an elected government have thus far been unsuccessful.
However, MLAs representing Kuki‑Zo interests have demanded that President’s Rule continue until their demand for a separate administrative arrangement—modeled on a Union Territory—receives a serious forum of discussion. This divergence has added to the complexity of the political dynamics, pitting factions within the NDA alliance against each other.
Governance and Civil Administration
New Chief Secretary Puneet Kumar Goel, a senior IAS officer, assumed charge in Imphal earlier this week. He replaces the previous incumbent and took office amid heightened security concerns. Goel’s appointment indicates the Centre’s intention to reinforce administrative capacity while supervising relief and resettlement efforts.
Relevance of Article 356 and Federal Concerns
President’s Rule, envisioned under Article 356 of the Constitution, permits central administration only when the state machinery cannot function according to constitutional norms. The provision allows a maximum of three years of President’s Rule, with approval required every six months. Scholars and critics maintain that the power should be used sparingly as a last resort, warning against abuse that could undermine federalism.
Outlook: Will Democratic Governance Return?
The extended central rule underscores continuing instability and unresolved tensions in Manipur. While the government prepares to dismantle relief camps by year-end and rehabilitate thousands of internally displaced individuals, political reconciliation remains elusive. The Centre’s stated aim of restoring normalcy through governance under Article 356 contrasts sharply with the demands of local MLAs for democratic restoration.
Whether President’s Rule serves as a bridge to stability or becomes a prolonged default remains to be seen. With no election timetable announced and political factions deeply divided, the state’s return to democratic governance is likely to remain uncertain in the near term.
In Summary
- Amit Shah moved a statutory resolution to extend President’s Rule from August 13, 2025 to February 13, 2026.
- Manipur has been under central rule since February 13, 2025, following the resignation of CM N. Biren Singh.
- Ethnic violence between Meitei and Kuki‑Zo groups has resulted in hundreds of deaths and mass displacement.
- There are opposing calls from MLAs for restoration of elected government and others demanding continuation of central rule.
- Security operations and administrative reinforcements are ongoing under the extended period of governance.
Photo Credit: The Hindu
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