In a dramatic early morning development, the Rajya Sabha confirmed the imposition of President’s Rule in Manipur at around 4 AM, following an extended session to discuss the state’s deteriorating law and order situation. The confirmation comes after months of ethnic unrest and administrative breakdown in the northeastern state.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah presented the motion, defending the Centre's decision, citing the inability of the Manipur state government to control the violence and ensure safety for all communities. Shah emphasized that the situation had reached a point where constitutional machinery had failed, leaving no option but to invoke Article 356 of the Constitution.
During his address, Shah also lashed out at the Opposition, accusing them of “politicising the conflict” for electoral gains. He argued that instead of cooperating to restore peace, Opposition parties were spreading misinformation and attempting to divide communities further. Shah said, “This is not the time for blame games. It is time for national unity and constructive dialogue.”
The move faced strong objections from several Opposition parties, including the Congress, TMC, and DMK, who alleged that the Centre failed to act in time and questioned the need for imposing President’s Rule rather than supporting the elected government. They also demanded accountability from both the central and state administrations for their handling of the ethnic violence that has claimed dozens of lives and displaced thousands.
Sources within the Ministry of Home Affairs stated that the decision to recommend President’s Rule was taken after several rounds of review meetings with security and intelligence agencies. The Army and paramilitary forces continue to maintain a strong presence across Manipur to prevent further escalation.
President’s Rule is expected to remain in effect until conditions improve significantly and democratic processes can be restored.
