Amit Shah Expected to Table Resolution in Rajya Sabha to Extend President’s Rule in Manipur by Six Months
President’s Rule in Manipur has been extended by another six months, starting from August 13, 2025. This decision follows a resolution tabled by Union Home Minister Amit Shah in the Lok Sabha.
Parliamentary Approval Under Article 356
An official notification confirmed: “That this House approves the continuance in force of the Proclamation dated the February 13, 2025 in respect of Manipur, issued under article 356 of the Constitution by the President, for a further period of six months with effect from August 13, 2025.”
President’s Rule, originally imposed on February 13, came shortly after former Chief Minister N. Biren Singh resigned under pressure from BJP MLAs of the Meitei community.
NDA MLAs Campaign for Restoration of Popular Government
Even as the Centre moves to continue President’s Rule, MLAs from the ruling NDA, particularly from the Meitei and Naga communities, have been actively campaigning for the reinstatement of an elected government in the state.
They argue that the state needs democratic leadership to address the ongoing crisis.
Background of the Crisis and Ethnic Conflict
Since May 3, 2023, Manipur has been gripped by violent ethnic clashes between the Kuki-Zo and Meitei communities. The violence has led to over 250 deaths and displaced more than 60,000 individuals.
Though the imposition of President’s Rule helped reduce the violence, tensions remain high in various regions.
Arrests and Security Operations Continue
On Thursday, security forces arrested eight militants linked to different banned outfits across districts including Imphal West, Bishnupur, Tengnoupal, and Chandel.
Police stated that search and area domination operations have been ongoing in fringe and vulnerable areas since the outbreak of violence.
Legislative Assembly Under Suspended Animation
The Manipur Legislative Assembly, whose tenure runs till 2027, continues to remain under suspended animation. The Centre had imposed President’s Rule on February 13, just three days after Chief Minister Biren Singh stepped down.
Controversy Around Eviction Drives
Officials said that in 2022 and 2023, ex-CM Biren Singh conducted extensive eviction drives targeting encroachments in both hill and valley districts.
These drives triggered major protests by the Kuki and Zo communities, further inflaming ethnic tensions.
Efforts to Restore Peace and Order
The Union Government’s crackdown on illegal arms and militant groups has intensified over recent months. The Centre is also focusing on resettling internally displaced persons and plans to close relief camps by year-end.
However, the delay in political restoration has sparked criticism, especially from BJP’s Manipur unit.
Differing Views Among MLAs
While many NDA MLAs are pushing for the return of democratic governance, ten MLAs from the Kuki-Zo community have insisted that President’s Rule should continue until their demand for a separate administrative setup is seriously addressed.
They are advocating for a structure akin to a Union Territory for their community.
Shah to Move Resolution in Rajya Sabha
Amit Shah is scheduled to introduce the same resolution in the Rajya Sabha, reinforcing the government’s decision to continue with central rule in Manipur.
This is in line with the constitutional provision that allows extension every six months with Parliament’s approval, for up to three years.
Lack of Progress in Peace Dialogue
Though there have been three significant arms recoveries recently and the state has seen a drop in violence, meaningful dialogue between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities remains elusive.
More than 26 months into the conflict, no substantial negotiations have taken place to resolve the root issues.
Growing Frustration Among Local Leaders
The decision to extend President’s Rule is expected to cause further dissatisfaction among NDA MLAs, particularly those from the Meitei and Naga communities.
Many believe the situation calls for a functional elected government rather than continued central intervention.
While the government maintains that President’s Rule is necessary to ensure stability, political groups within the state are increasingly demanding a return to democratic governance to rebuild trust and social cohesion.
