Sat Feb 15 21:43:00 UTC 2025: ## Manipur Placed Under President’s Rule Amidst Ethnic Violence and Political Gridlock
**Imphal, Manipur – February 16, 2025** – Manipur has been placed under President’s Rule, marking the eleventh time the state has been under central government control. This decision, announced on February 13th, follows the resignation of Chief Minister N. Biren Singh four days prior. While the BJP retains a majority in the state assembly, the party failed to agree on a successor, leaving a political vacuum.
The imposition of President’s Rule, under Article 356 of the Indian Constitution, comes amidst escalating ethnic violence between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities, a conflict that has raged since May 2023. Singh faced widespread criticism for his handling of the crisis, both from within and outside his party.
This is the 11th time President’s Rule has been imposed in Manipur, the highest for any Indian state, highlighting the state’s persistent political instability. The article explains that President’s Rule can be invoked when the constitutional machinery of a state fails, with the President assuming the functions of the state government and assembly. However, the President cannot assume powers vested in a High Court. The proclamation must be approved by Parliament within two months and can be renewed every six months, with a maximum duration of three years.
The decision to impose President’s Rule, while unprecedented for its frequency in Manipur, is not uncommon in India’s history. Article 356 has been used 135 times across various states and union territories, for various reasons including law and order issues, political instability, and government collapses. However, the Supreme Court’s 1994 Bommai judgment established that courts can review the constitutionality of President’s Rule proclamations.
Significantly, Manipur’s assembly has been kept in suspended animation, rather than dissolved. This means it can be revived once a stable government can be formed. Experts debate the constitutional implications of this approach, with some arguing that suspended animation lacks constitutional backing. While President’s Rule has often been used in situations where the ruling party at the state level differs from the central government, this instance shows it can also be applied when the same party holds power at both levels.
The imposition of President’s Rule underscores the complex challenges facing Manipur, demanding a multifaceted approach addressing both political and ethnic tensions. The long-term implications remain to be seen, as the central government works to restore stability and order in the state.
First Piper 