President's Rule Imposed in Manipur

Manipur, February 13, 2025 - President's Rule has been imposed in Manipur, a northeastern state plagued by violence for nearly two years, after Chief Minister N Biren Singh resigned ahead of a no-confidence motion threat by the opposition Congress.

This marks the 11th time President's Rule has been declared in Manipur since 1951. The decision was made after President Droupadi Murmu received a report from Governor Ajay Bhalla, concluding that the state government could not function in accordance with the Constitution.

Singh's resignation came amid growing discontent within his party and among constituents, who have expressed dissatisfaction with governance and development issues in the state. The opposition Congress had threatened to move a no-confidence motion against Singh's government.

With the imposition of President's Rule, the state's assembly has been put under suspended animation, and the central government will assume administrative powers. This move has raised concerns about political stability and governance in the region.

The crisis in Manipur has been brewing for several months, exacerbated by internal strife within the ruling BJP and rising tensions among various community groups. The state has been rocked by violent clashes between the valley-based Meitei community and the Kuki-Zo groups, resulting in over 250 deaths and displacing thousands.

The imposition of President's Rule is authorised under Article 356 of the Indian Constitution, which allows the President to take action when a state government fails to comply with constitutional provisions.

By Catholic Connect Reporter