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President’s rule imposed in Manipur on February 13, after CM N. Biren Singh resigned.
Ongoing violence between Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities since May 2023.
The conflict caused over 250 deaths and 60,000 displaced people.
Singh’s resignation and political instability prompted the Union government’s intervention.
Why Has It Been Imposed?
Violence escalated due to Meitei's demand for Scheduled Tribe status, opposed by Kuki-Zo.
Kuki-Zo feared losing jobs and affirmative action benefits.
BJP faced difficulty in selecting a new leader after Singh’s resignation.
Imposition of President’s rule followed to restore order and stability.
What Does the Constitution Say?
Article 356 allows President’s rule if a state government fails constitutionally.
President takes over executive powers, and Parliament assumes legislative powers.
Proclamation must be approved by Parliament and can last up to three years with extensions.
Provides a legal framework to handle internal disturbances and political instability.
How Is a 'Constitutional Emergency' Different from a 'National Emergency'?
Constitutional emergency (Article 356) is for state-level crises, lasts up to three years.
National emergency (Article 352) is for national security threats and has no time limit.
Under President’s rule, the state’s executive is dismissed, but a national emergency keeps state functions intact.
National emergency requires a special majority in Parliament, while President’s rule needs a simple majority.
Does It Affect Fundamental Rights?
President’s rule does not suspend fundamental rights.
Unlike national emergency, freedoms under Article 19 are not affected.
The President gains extra powers to govern the state, but high court powers remain intact.
Parliament can delegate legislative powers to the President.
How Often Has It Been Imposed?
President’s rule has been imposed 134 times since 1950.
Manipur has faced it 11 times, tied with Uttar Pradesh.
The longest duration in Manipur lasted from 1969-1972.
Jammu & Kashmir has the longest cumulative duration (over 12 years).
What Has the SC Said About the Use and Misuse of President's Rule?
The SC in S.R. Bommai (1994) ruled that President’s rule should only be used for constitutional breakdown, not for political reasons.
The proclamation is subject to judicial review by the SC and High Courts.
The Centre must issue a warning notice before invoking President’s rule.
The SC ruled that the assembly cannot be dissolved without Parliament’s approval.
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