Imphal: In light of President’s Rule being imposed in Manipur, BJP MP Sambit Patra reaffirmed the party’s commitment to maintaining the state’s territorial integrity and restoring peace. As head of the BJP’s North East unit, Patra highlighted the party’s focus on ensuring stability in the conflict-stricken region. He stated that the party would take a strong stand against illegal infiltration in Manipur, coinciding with heightened security measures in Imphal amid ongoing political unrest and ethnic tensions.
“Following the Governor of Manipur’s report, the President of India, Droupadi Murmu, has suspended the state assembly, allowing for its revival as deemed appropriate based on the situation,” Patra told ANI. He emphasized the BJP’s dedication to fostering peace in the state while firmly stating, “There will be no compromise on Manipur’s territorial integrity. Any illegal infiltration will be met with strict action.”
President Droupadi Murmu enacted President’s Rule in Manipur on Thursday under Article 356 of the Constitution, following recommendations from the state governor. This means that the authority of the state assembly is suspended, transferring its powers to Parliament, with governance now under direct control of the President via the Governor.
The proclamation published in the Gazette of India by the Union Home Ministry indicates that the powers of the Manipur Legislative Assembly will be assumed by Parliament, effectively invalidating the state government’s authority. President’s Rule can remain in effect for up to six months, pending parliamentary approval, and during this timeframe, the central government will manage governance, possibly leading to fresh elections to resume democratic processes in the state.
This decision came shortly after N Biren Singh stepped down as Chief Minister on February 9, amid ongoing violence and instability that have affected Manipur for nearly two years. The unrest has largely stemmed from confrontations between the majority Meitei community and the minority Kuki-Zomi tribes, driven by conflicts over economic benefits, job reservations, and land rights, leading to hundreds of fatalities and the displacement of around 60,000 individuals. Additionally, the Union Home Ministry has provided BJP leader Sambit Patra with ‘Z’ category CRPF security in Manipur.