Centre Imposes President’s Rule in Manipur, Congress MP Bimol Akoijam Slams Move as Political Shield for BJP
Summary
On February 13, 2025, President’s Rule was imposed in Manipur following the resignation of Chief Minister N. Biren Singh amid months of ethnic violence that left over 260 people dead and displaced thousands. The BJP failed to form a consensus government, triggering central oversight under Article 356. On July 25, 2025, the Centre moved to extend President’s Rule another six months, from August 13, 2025 to February 13, 2026. While the government asserts that peace is prevailing, Congress MP Bimol Akoijam has vehemently criticized the move as undemocratic—calling it a political shield for BJP and demanding fresh elections and parliamentary discussion to restore people’s mandate.
Introduction: Democracy on Pause or Protective Cover?
Imagine voting in an election, expecting new leadership, but instead seeing bureaucrats run your state. That’s the tension gripping Manipur today. With President’s Rule in force since February 2025, and now a six-month extension from August 13, 2025, questions swirl—are we safeguarding peace or stifling democracy? And for whom?
Voices of Dissent—MP Bimol Akoijam Speaks Up
Enter Dr. Angomcha Bimol Akoijam, Congress MP from Inner Manipur—a vocal critic of the ongoing central rule.
- His key grievance? Democratic voice suppression. He claims that elected MLAs are sidelined, and only he and two other MPs can represent Manipur’s interests under central rule.
- He rejects the notion that measures like suspending state legislature or central rule are necessary, accusing the BJP of failing to form a government and forcing the state into a constitutional vacuum.
Akoijam insists that fresh elections are needed—not more central control cloaked as stability. He also criticizes the neglect of local issues, like the non-payment of salaries to regularized teachers—a sign, he says, of bureaucrats attempting to govern from Delhi without accountability.
Conclusion: Balance Between Order and Representation
Manipur’s story is not just about control; it’s about choice. President’s Rule offers order—but democracy is the foundation of choice. When governance shifts from citizens to civil servants, the question remains: Is stability enough or is self-governance irreplaceable?
If Manipur is to heal from its wounds, voices from the valley and hills—not just Delhi—must guide its future.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What prompted the initial imposition of President’s Rule in Manipur?
A leadership crisis after CM N. Biren Singh’s resignation and failure by BJP to form a government in February 2025 triggered Governor’s report and central takeover. - Why is Congress MP Bimol Akoijam opposing the extension?
He argues it undermines democracy, sidelines elected representatives, suppresses local voices, and avoids elections that the people deserve. - Have Manipur’s MPs been allowed to speak on this issue in Parliament?
No. MPs from the state were reportedly denied opportunities to speak during debates on President’s Rule in both Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha. - What is the government’s justification for extending the rule?
The Centre claims peace is prevailing, and governance continuity is needed until the state is ready for elections or political stability. - When is President’s Rule scheduled to end, unless further extended?
The current extension covers from August 13, 2025, to February 13, 2026. Any further extension would require additional parliamentary approval.
