Imphal (Manipur) [India], February 14: In the wake of the imposition of President’s Rule in Manipur, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP Sambit Patra reaffirmed the party’s commitment to upholding the state’s territorial integrity and vowed to restore peace in the conflict-ridden region.
Patra, who heads the BJP’s North East unit, highlighted the party’s dedication to ensuring stability in Manipur, which has been marred by political instability and ethnic tensions.Patra emphasized that illegal infiltration into the state would be dealt with sternly, as security in the state capital Imphal was heightened.
“After the Governor of Manipur’s report, the President of India, Droupadi Murmu, has placed the state assembly under suspended animation, meaning it can be revived when the President deems fit, depending on the circumstances,” Patra said.
The BJP leader reiterated the party’s unwavering stance on national security, stating, “We are committed to maintaining the territorial integrity of Manipur. Any form of illegal infiltration will not be tolerated and will be confronted with a severe hand.”
On Thursday, President Murmu imposed President’s Rule in Manipur under Article 356 of the Indian Constitution, following the Governor’s report. This decision effectively suspends the powers of the state assembly, transferring them to Parliament. Under this proclamation, the governance of Manipur will now be directly overseen by the President through the Governor.
The move comes after Chief Minister N Biren Singh’s resignation on February 9, amid growing violence and political instability that has plagued the state for nearly two years. The unrest in Manipur primarily involves clashes between the Meitei community, the majority ethnic group, and the Kuki-Zomi tribes, largely stemming from disputes over job quotas, economic benefits, and land rights. The ongoing violence has resulted in hundreds of deaths and displaced around 60,000 people.
President’s Rule, which can last up to six months, will be subject to parliamentary approval. During this period, the central government will directly oversee governance in the state, with the possibility of fresh elections being held to restore democratic functioning.
Additionally, the Union Home Ministry has provided BJP leader Sambit Patra with ‘Z’ category CRPF security cover in Manipur.