President’s rule imposed in Manipur amid BJP’s leadership deadlock

BJP fails to name a new Chief Minister, leading to President’s rule

The President’s rule has been imposed in Manipur after the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leadership failed to appoint a new Chief Minister following N Biren Singh’s resignation. The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) issued an official notification declaring the President’s Rule in the state, placing the Manipur Assembly under suspended animation.

According to BJP MP and Northeast in-charge Sambit Patra, this means that while the President’s Rule is in place, the Assembly remains suspended, allowing for the possibility of government formation if a party with a majority stakes a claim.

The official notification from President Droupadi Murmu stated:
“After receiving a report from the Governor of Manipur and considering all relevant information, I am satisfied that the state government cannot be carried on in accordance with the provisions of the Constitution.”

Despite multiple rounds of discussions between BJP leaders and legislators, the party was unable to finalize a new Chief Minister. Patra met Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla twice in the past two days, but no decision was reached.

Meanwhile, Congress MLA Thokchom Lokeshwar criticized Patra’s visit, questioning whether he was genuinely attempting to resolve the leadership crisis. He stated that Patra should have led discussions with BJP MLAs to appoint a new CM, instead of ensuring that no Assembly session was held, which would keep state issues sidelined.

Why did Biren Singh resign as Manipur CM?

Since ethnic violence erupted in Manipur in May 2023, more than 250 people have been killed, and thousands have been displaced. Singh faced mounting backlash, especially from the Congress, which had moved a no-confidence motion in the State Assembly.

There were also reports that some BJP MLAs were likely to support the motion, adding to the political uncertainty.

The Governor had convened an Assembly session to begin on February 10, 2025, but with the President’s rule now in effect, the session remains uncertain.

What’s next for Manipur?

Under the President’s rule, the state government is dismissed, and its powers are suspended. The Governor assumes executive control, administering the state on behalf of the President of India.

The Governor acts under the guidance of the Union Council of Ministers, led by the Prime Minister.

Duration of President’s rule:

• Initially imposed for six months.
• Can be extended up to three years, but only with Parliamentary approval every six months.
• After one year, special conditions must be met for further extensions.

For now, Manipur’s governance remains under the direct authority of the Centre, until a new government is formed.

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