President’s Rule In Manipur Extended By 6 Months

President’s Rule in Manipur has officially been extended by another six months, effective from August 13, 2025. The resolution, introduced by Union Home Minister Amit Shah in the Lok Sabha, seeks to continue the constitutional arrangement under Article 356 following political instability and ethnic unrest in the state.

According to the official notice, it was stated, “That this House approves the continuance in force of the Proclamation dated the February 13, 2025 in respect of Manipur, issued under article 356 of the Constitution by the President, for a further period of six months with effect from August 13, 2025.”

Background: Why President’s Rule Was Imposed

The House has approved the continuance of the Proclamation dated February 13, 2025, when President’s Rule was first imposed after the resignation of then-Chief Minister N. Biren Singh. His exit came amidst internal pressure from BJP legislators—mainly from the Meitei community—who were dissatisfied with his leadership.

The extension comes at a time when several NDA MLAs from both Meitei and Naga communities are lobbying to restore an elected government. However, given the ongoing tensions and fragile ground situation, the Centre has opted to maintain direct governance.

Ethnic Conflict at the Core of Manipur’s Crisis

Manipur’s troubles are deeply rooted in an ethnic conflict that erupted on May 3, 2023, between the Kuki-Zo and Meitei communities. The violence has since claimed over 250 lives and displaced more than 60,000 people, transforming the state into a prolonged conflict zone.

Adding to the volatility, security forces recently arrested eight militants linked to banned outfits across Imphal West, Bishnupur, Tengnoupal, and Chandel districts. The forces continue extensive search operations and area domination in vulnerable zones, trying to prevent further flare-ups.

The state legislative assembly, which is valid until 2027, remains in suspended animation. This constitutional limbo allows governance through the Governor’s office but without an elected leadership.

Eviction Drives Sparked Tribal Anger

Much of today’s unrest also traces back to a series of aggressive eviction drives launched by ex-CM Biren Singh in 2022 and 2023. The operations targeted illegal encroachments in both hill and valley regions, sparking mass protests from the Kuki and Zo tribes who saw the move as discriminatory.

Under the Constitution, President’s Rule can be extended every six months, with parliamentary approval, up to a total of three years. Whether Manipur will see democratic restoration before that timeline depends on a return to peace and a political consensus strong enough to hold the reins.