New Delhi, February 13: In a significant political development, President’s Rule was imposed in Manipur on Thursday, just four days after Chief Minister N Biren Singh stepped down from his position. Along with this move, the state assembly has been placed under suspended animation, effectively transferring governance to the central administration.
A notification issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) announced the imposition of central rule, citing the constitutional necessity for direct intervention. According to the official statement, President Droupadi Murmu determined that the governance of Manipur “cannot be carried on in accordance with the provisions of the Constitution,” thereby necessitating immediate action under Article 356.
The proclamation, as outlined in the notification, stated: “Now, therefore, in exercise of the powers conferred by Article 356 of the Constitution, and of all other powers enabling me in that behalf, I hereby proclaim that I – assume to myself as President of India all functions of the Government of the State of Manipur and all powers vested in or exercisable by the Governor of that State.”
This decision marks a crucial shift in Manipur’s political landscape, as it brings the state under direct central administration at a time of heightened political uncertainty. With the legislative assembly put under suspended animation, the governance of Manipur will now be overseen by the Union Government until further arrangements are made.
The imposition of President’s Rule follows weeks of political turbulence in the state, culminating in the resignation of Biren Singh amid mounting challenges. The move is expected to bring stability and administrative clarity, while also paving the way for potential electoral or structural decisions in the near future.