In a significant development, the Rajya Sabha has confirmed the imposition of President's Rule in Manipur, marking a critical intervention by the Centre in response to ongoing ethnic clashes, administrative failure, and public unrest in the state. The move had already received clearance from the Union Cabinet and was passed in the Lok Sabha earlier this week.
The decision to suspend the state government’s powers under Article 356 of the Constitution comes after months of violence, curfews, and breakdown of law and order in several parts of Manipur. The central government has cited the inability of the state machinery to restore peace and maintain governance as the primary reason for this action.
During the Rajya Sabha session, Union Home Minister Amit Shah defended the move, stating that despite repeated support and deployment of central forces, the state government failed to control the escalating situation. He assured that President’s Rule is a temporary measure aimed at restoring normalcy and that fresh elections would be held at an appropriate time.
Opposition parties, however, criticized the Centre for not acting sooner to prevent the crisis. Members from the Congress, Trinamool Congress, and Left parties questioned the delay in intervention and raised concerns about human rights violations and lack of transparency in handling the unrest.
Manipur has been witnessing tensions between communities since early last year, leading to large-scale violence, displacement of people, and severe disruption in public life. Internet blackouts, school closures, and restricted mobility have affected daily living and economic activity in the region.
The imposition of President's Rule brings the state directly under the control of the Governor, who will now function with the assistance of the central government. Security forces have been put on high alert, and additional personnel have been deployed to sensitive zones.
The situation remains tense, but the government has assured continuous monitoring and a structured plan to bring back peace, conduct relief efforts, and eventually restore democratic governance in Manipur.
