President’s Rule in Manipur
On February 13, 2025, Article 356 was invoked, placing Manipur under President’s Rule, allowing the President to take control of the state's administration and legislative functions.
The State Assembly was not dissolved, but instead placed in "animated suspension," giving the BJP time to resolve internal conflicts without holding immediate elections.
This was the 11th time Manipur has been placed under President’s Rule, highlighting its recurring political instability.
Reasons for the Move
The immediate cause for invoking President’s Rule was the deadline for the next State Assembly session, which was missed after the winter session was skipped.
The resignation of Chief Minister N. Biren Singh, was likely forced by BJP leadership to prevent a split, with dissident MLAs ready to support an opposition no-confidence motion.
The Governor’s declaration of the Assembly session as “null and void” further added to the state’s constitutional limbo, leaving few options other than invoking President’s Rule.
Manipur’s Political Landscape and Diversity
Manipur is home to 33 recognized Scheduled Tribes, including Meiteis, Kuki-Zos, and others like Nepalis, Punjabis, Tamils, and Marwaris, making its political landscape complex and diverse.
The state’s political history reflects deep divisions among ethnic groups, contributing to frequent periods of instability and the need for President’s Rule.
The state's population of around three million includes numerous non-tribal communities, whose concerns are often overlooked in the political discourse.
Populist Politics and Communal Strife
The state’s political problems are exacerbated by different forms of populist politics, including
“Reordering” populism, focused on restructuring the moral order, and
“Additive” populism, which seeks inclusion for marginalized communities like Nepalis.
The “Quotidian” populism has led to partisan leaders creating exclusive constituencies, further polarizing society and deepening communal divisions.
The ethnic strife between the Meiteis and Kuki-Zos, stemming from issues like forest encroachment, poppy cultivation, and illegal migration, has been exacerbated by populist rhetoric from both sides.
Future Challenges
The President’s Rule may be temporary, but the underlying issues— ethnic violence, political fragmentation, and economic development— require long-term solutions and careful management.
Migration, particularly across international borders, should be regulated to avoid unaccounted movements while addressing economic challenges
To achieve lasting peace and stability, Manipur needs a politics of consensus, with a focus on the common good rather than divisive populist strategies.
The future of Manipur’s political landscape hinges on reducing communal hostilities and promoting inclusive policies for all communities.
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