The Centre on Wednesday placed before the Lok Sabha a resolution seeking to extend President’s Rule in Manipur for another six months beyond 13 August, citing the continued breakdown of constitutional machinery in the violence-hit northeastern state.
The statutory resolution was moved by Nityanand Rai, Minister of State for Home Affairs, for discussion in the Lower House. Speaker Om Birla reminded members that the initial proclamation, issued on 13 February 2025, had been ratified by Parliament on 2 April, granting effect for a constitutionally mandated period of six months.
"If the President's Rule has to be extended by another six months, the statutory resolution has to be approved by both the Houses of Parliament," said Birla.
Manipur has remained under President’s Rule following persistent ethnic violence, administrative paralysis, and failure of law and order that began in early May 2023. The state has witnessed repeated clashes between Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities, leaving over 200 people dead and displacing thousands. Sporadic outbreaks of violence continue despite repeated security interventions and appeals for peace.
Also read: 'Peace returning slowly to Manipur,' says Governor Ajay Bhalla
A fresh mandate of President’s Rule would imply further delay in holding Assembly elections, which had been anticipated once normalcy was restored. However, with no functional Cabinet in Imphal and the civil administration yet to regain full control across the hills and valley regions, officials argue that governance cannot be restored through elected mechanisms at present.
The Opposition has frequently criticised the Centre for what they call a failure to quell violence and ensure accountability in Manipur. The ruling BJP, however, maintains that extending direct rule is essential to stabilise the situation and maintain territorial integrity.
The resolution is expected to be debated in both Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha before the 13 August deadline.
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