The Union government has introduced a resolution in the Lok Sabha seeking to extend President’s Rule in Manipur, citing continued instability and law and order concerns. This move comes in the backdrop of ongoing ethnic unrest between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities, which has plagued the northeastern state for over a year.
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Resolution in the House
Union Minister of State for Home Affairs, Nityanand Rai, tabled the resolution in Parliament on Tuesday. He asserted that normalcy had not been restored in Manipur and therefore a constitutional mechanism needed to be continued. The original proclamation of President’s Rule in Manipur, which began on May 28 following months of violence, is set to expire on August 27.
The resolution seeks to extend the rule by another six months under Article 356(4) of the Constitution. As required by law, both houses of Parliament must approve the extension within two months of the issuance.
Ongoing Ethnic Clashes
The ethnic conflict in Manipur broke out in May 2023. Clashes between the majority Meitei community and the tribal Kuki-Zo groups have led to over 200 deaths and displaced thousands. Despite efforts from both state and central governments, the violence continues to simmer across several districts including Churachandpur, Kangpokpi, and Imphal.
The Centre, in its statement attached to the resolution, highlighted that law enforcement agencies remain under severe stress. Sporadic incidents of arson, looting of arms, and community-based blockades continue to pose challenges. Given these circumstances, the Centre stated that continuing President’s Rule in Manipur was necessary to maintain constitutional order.
Opposition Criticism and Debate
The resolution sparked strong reactions from opposition members. Several MPs questioned the effectiveness of the central government’s handling of the crisis. Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi argued that extending President’s Rule is a “temporary band-aid on a festering wound.” He demanded more proactive conflict resolution measures, including dialogue between the warring communities and the rehabilitation of displaced families.
Trinamool Congress leader Mahua Moitra also condemned the extension, stating that it shows the failure of both the Manipur government and the Centre to bring peace. According to her, the root causes of the unrest remain unaddressed, and a prolonged imposition of President’s Rule will only deepen community mistrust.
Government’s Justification
Responding to the criticism, Minister Nityanand Rai defended the resolution. He said that peace cannot be enforced overnight in a complex situation like Manipur’s. The Centre has deployed security forces, provided humanitarian assistance, and has been coordinating with community leaders and civil society groups to create a sustainable peace framework.
Rai assured the House that the government does not intend to prolong President’s Rule unnecessarily. However, under the current security and governance vacuum, the step is both legal and necessary.
Constitutional Procedure
According to Article 356, the President can impose central rule if a state government cannot function according to constitutional provisions. The proclamation must be ratified by both Houses of Parliament within two months. It can be extended every six months for up to three years with Parliamentary approval.
This is not the first time Manipur has come under President’s Rule. The state has witnessed this constitutional provision multiple times in its political history due to instability, insurgency, and leadership crises.
Voices from the Ground
Several civil society groups in Manipur responded with mixed emotions. Some welcomed the move, expressing hope that it would prevent biased administration under the existing state leadership. Others, especially those in Imphal valley, felt that prolonged President’s Rule may disconnect governance from grassroots issues.
Nongthombam Priyobrata, a social worker in Imphal, said, “People are exhausted. The violence has taken a toll on livelihoods and mental health. We want governance that heals and unites, not just temporary administrative solutions.”
Meanwhile, displaced families living in relief camps demanded swift rehabilitation and stronger protection mechanisms. “We’ve been living in camps for more than a year. Our houses are burnt, our futures uncertain. We need more than laws—we need compassion,” said Thanglal Haokip, a resident of Churachandpur.
What Lies Ahead
If the resolution is passed by the Rajya Sabha, Manipur will officially remain under President’s Rule till February 2026, unless lifted earlier. The Union Home Ministry plans to review the situation periodically and decide on the possible reinstallation of an elected government when conditions improve.
For now, the Centre’s priority remains restoring peace and stability. A senior Home Ministry official said that coordination with the Army, Assam Rifles, and state administration will be intensified. Special provisions for inter-community dialogue and economic rehabilitation are also being drafted.
The move to extend President’s Rule in Manipur reflects the Centre’s assessment that the state is still not ready for democratic governance. While it provides administrative continuity, the real challenge lies in resolving the root causes of conflict and rebuilding trust among communities. As Parliament debates the resolution, the people of Manipur continue to wait for lasting peace and healing.
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