The Impressive TimesNew Delhi, April 3, 2025 – Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Shri Amit Shah, moved a statutory resolution in the Lok Sabha seeking approval for the imposition of President’s Rule in Manipur. The resolution was adopted by the House, which also expressed deep sorrow for those who lost their lives in the violence.
Shri Amit Shah clarified that the ethnic violence in Manipur was triggered by a reservation-related dispute between two communities following a Manipur High Court decision. He emphasized that these were not acts of terrorism or riots but ethnic clashes arising from different interpretations of the court’s ruling.
No Violence in Last Four Months: Shri Shah stated that since December 2024, Manipur has seen no violence, and the government has ensured the availability of food, medicines, and medical care for displaced individuals in relief camps. Online education arrangements have been made for students, and primary education classes have been set up inside the camps.
Historical Context of Violence: The Home Minister pointed out that Manipur has experienced multiple instances of ethnic violence in the past. He cited the 1993 Naga-Kuki conflict, which lasted five years and resulted in 750 deaths, and the Kuki-Paite conflict of 1997-98, which displaced 40,000 people and destroyed over 50 villages. He criticized the opposition for portraying the current situation as unprecedented.
Security Measures and Rapid Response: Shri Shah informed the House that security forces were deployed via Air Force planes on the very day the High Court’s order was issued. He reiterated that law and order measures were taken promptly to control the situation.
Opposition Criticism Refuted: The Home Minister dismissed allegations that the government ignored the crisis. He highlighted that between 2012-2017, Manipur experienced shutdowns for an average of 212 days per year, despite the absence of ethnic violence. In contrast, during BJP rule since 2017, Manipur had no shutdowns or blockades before the High Court order.
Rehabilitation and Peace Talks: Shri Shah assured that after President’s Rule was imposed, discussions were held with both communities, and separate meetings took place with key stakeholders. The Ministry of Home Affairs will soon convene a joint meeting to discuss rehabilitation efforts.
Future Course of Action: The government’s priority is to restore peace, rehabilitate displaced individuals, and heal the wounds of affected communities. Shri Shah also mentioned that discussions are ongoing for a comprehensive rehabilitation package.
The imposition of President’s Rule came after the resignation of the Chief Minister and consultations with key political stakeholders in Manipur. The Home Minister urged all parties to refrain from politicizing the issue and assured that the government is making every possible effort to bring lasting peace to the region.
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