Source: swarajyamag

What is President's Rule?

President's Rule refers to the suspension of a state's legislative assembly and the imposition of direct governance by the central government. Under Article 356 of the Indian Constitution, this measure is enacted when a state government is unable to function according to constitutional provisions. During this period, the state's executive authority is exercised through the centrally appointed Governor, and the legislative functions of the state are assumed by the Parliament.

Reasons for Imposing President's Rule in Manipur

The immediate catalyst for this decision was the resignation of Chief Minister N. Biren Singh, which created a leadership vacuum in a state already grappling with severe ethnic unrest. Since 2023, Manipur has witnessed intense clashes between the majority Meitei community and the minority Kuki community. The violence escalated following a court suggestion to extend economic benefits and job quotas, traditionally reserved for Kukis, to Meiteis. This proposal intensified existing tensions, leading to widespread violence and instability.

The federal government's decision to impose President's Rule was based on reports from the state's Governor and other pertinent information, indicating that the state government could no longer function in accordance with constitutional provisions. This marks the 11th instance of President's Rule being imposed in Manipur, the highest for any Indian state.

In response to the imposition of President's Rule, security measures have heightened across Manipur to prevent further violence and restore order. The central government's intervention aims to stabilise the situation and facilitate a return to normalcy in the region.