Mon Feb 17 00:52:41 UTC 2025: ## Manipur Placed Under Direct Federal Rule Amidst Ongoing Ethnic Conflict

**Imphal, India –** The Indian government has imposed direct federal rule, known as President’s Rule, on the strife-torn northeastern state of Manipur. This decision follows the resignation of Chief Minister N Biren Singh on Sunday, after months of mounting pressure. Singh, a member of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), faced accusations of bias towards the majority Meitei community in the ongoing conflict with the Kuki minority.

The conflict, which erupted in May 2023, has claimed over 250 lives and displaced tens of thousands. It stems from deep-seated tensions over land rights, job quotas, and economic benefits, further exacerbated by a viral video in July showing the brutal assault of two Kuki women. While the intensity of violence has decreased since its peak, underlying divisions persist, and sporadic incidents continue.

The BJP’s inability to find a replacement for Singh contributed to the decision for President’s Rule. A statement from President Droupadi Murmu’s office cited a situation where the state government could no longer function constitutionally. The upcoming state assembly session has been declared null and void.

Opposition parties, including the Congress, had planned a no-confidence motion against Singh, which they believe contributed to his resignation. They have also criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi for not visiting the state since the violence began. Furthermore, the Supreme Court is hearing a case against Singh, with Kuki organizations presenting leaked audio tapes alleging his direct involvement in fueling the violence.

The conflict’s roots run deep, involving the Meitei and Kuki communities’ struggle for dominance and control over land. The Kukis accuse the Meitei-led government’s drug war of targeting their communities. Despite peace talks, the state remains divided, with Meiteis primarily in the Imphal Valley and Kukis in the surrounding hills, separated by security checkpoints. The imposition of President’s Rule marks a significant escalation in the Indian government’s response to the crisis.

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