President's rule imposed in Manipur after Biren Singh's resignation

The central government has imposed President’s rule in Manipur following the resignation of Chief Minister N. Biren Singh amid ongoing ethnic violence in the state. The situation in Manipur remains tense due to clashes between the Meitei and Kuki communities, prompting the BJP-led administration to step down.

Biren Singh submitted his resignation to Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla on Sunday after months of unrest and pressure from both political and civil groups. His departure triggered a series of high-level meetings among BJP leaders to determine the next chief minister. Manipur BJP in-charge Sambit Patra was in discussions with senior party officials to finalize a name. However, with no consensus reached, the central government decided to impose President’s rule.

The ethnic conflict in Manipur has led to widespread violence, destruction of property, and displacement of thousands. The Meitei-Kuki clashes, which began in 2023, have continued despite repeated peace efforts. Security forces remain deployed across sensitive areas, and curfews are in place in several districts to prevent further escalation.

President’s rule means that the state government will be temporarily dissolved, and direct control will be taken over by the central government. While the BJP continues its internal deliberations, no official statement has been made regarding a potential successor to Biren Singh.

The imposition of President’s rule has sparked political reactions, with opposition parties blaming the BJP for its failure to maintain law and order. Congress leaders have demanded fresh elections, arguing that a new government should be chosen democratically rather than imposed through central authority.

As the situation unfolds, security remains tight in Manipur, and the central government is expected to review the situation before deciding on the next steps. The political uncertainty in the state continues, with BJP yet to announce its strategy moving forward.