President’s Rule in Manipur: A Failing Lifeline Amidst Rising Unrest
Summary
Manipur is currently grappling with escalating unrest under President’s Rule, imposed in February 2025 following the resignation of Chief Minister N. Biren Singh amid ethnic violence. The situation has intensified with recent incidents, including the forced removal of “Manipur” signage from a state-run bus, sparking widespread protests led by the Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI). The Congress party has criticized the central government’s handling of the crisis, calling for the resignation of Union Home Minister Amit Shah and the recall of Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla. The ongoing turmoil raises serious questions about the effectiveness of President’s Rule in restoring peace and governance in the state
Introduction: A State in Turmoil
Imagine living in a place where the very name of your state becomes a point of contention. That’s the reality for the people of Manipur, a state currently under President’s Rule, where recent actions have ignited a firestorm of protests and political backlash. The central government’s attempt to stabilize the region seems to be faltering, with incidents like the forced removal of “Manipur” from a state bus serving as a catalyst for widespread unrest.
Background: The Imposition of President’s Rule
President’s Rule was imposed in Manipur on February 13, 2025, following the resignation of Chief Minister N. Biren Singh amid escalating ethnic violence between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities. The central government aimed to restore order by taking direct control of the state’s administration. However, the situation has remained volatile, with over 260 people killed and thousands displaced since the onset of violence in May 2023.
The Bus Incident: A Spark Ignites
On May 20, 2025, a government-operated bus carrying journalists to the Shirui Lily Festival in Ukhrul district was stopped at the Gwaltabi checkpoint. Security personnel allegedly forced the removal of the word “Manipur” from the bus’s windshield, an act perceived as an affront to the state’s identity. This incident triggered immediate backlash from journalists and civil society groups, leading to protests and a 48-hour state-wide bandh organized by COCOMI.
Escalating Protests and Political Fallout
The bus incident served as a tipping point, leading to widespread protests across Manipur. COCOMI intensified its agitation, demanding a public apology from Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla and the resignation of key officials, including the Security Advisor, DGP, and Chief Secretary. The protests disrupted normal life in the Imphal Valley, with businesses, educational institutions, and public transport shut down.
Congress’s Critique: A Call for Accountability
The Congress party has vehemently criticized the central government’s handling of the situation. Manipur Congress President Keisham Meghachandra condemned the administration under President’s Rule, stating it has failed to restore peace. He called for the recall of Governor Bhalla and demanded the resignation of Union Home Minister Amit Shah, accusing the BJP’s “double-engine” government of failing Manipur for over two years
The Role of COCOMI: Guardians of Identity
COCOMI, a Meitei civil society organization, has been at the forefront of the protests, emphasizing the importance of preserving Manipur’s identity. They have demanded accountability from the state’s leadership and called for an end to President’s Rule, advocating for local governance to uphold the state’s dignity and values.
FAQs
Q1: What led to the imposition of President’s Rule in Manipur?
President’s Rule was imposed in February 2025 following the resignation of Chief Minister N. Biren Singh amid escalating ethnic violence between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities.
Q2: Why did the removal of “Manipur” from a bus cause such an uproar?
The act was seen as an affront to the state’s identity, sparking widespread protests led by civil society groups like COCOMI.
Q3: What are the main demands of the protestors?
Protestors are demanding a public apology from Governor Bhalla, the resignation of key officials, and an end to President’s Rule in favor of local governance.
Q4: How has the central government responded to the crisis?
The central government’s response has been criticized as inadequate, with calls for stronger measures to address the ongoing unrest.
Q5: What is the current political climate in Manipur?
The state remains under President’s Rule, with widespread protests and calls for immediate elections to restore democratic governance.
