President’s Rule has been imposed in Manipur after Chief Minister N Biren Singh resigned on February 9, leaving the state without an elected leadership. The decision comes as the deadline to convene the state assembly expired on February 12, further deepening the political uncertainty.
The decision to impose the central rule was taken after the governor sent a report to President Droupadi Murmu.
“After considering the report and other information received by me, I am satisfied that a situation has arisen in which the government of that state cannot be carried on in accordance with the provisions of the Constitution of India,” the notification said.
It further said: “Now, therefore, in exercise of the powers conferred by article 356 of the Constitution, and of all other powers enabling me in that behalf, I hereby proclaim that I – assume to myself as President of India all functions of the government of the state of Manipur and all powers vested in or exercisable by the Governor of the that state”.
Article 356 of the Constitution allows for the imposition of President’s Rule, transferring the responsibilities of the state government to the central government and the powers of the state legislature to Parliament while it is in effect. The only aspect that remains unaffected is the functioning of the state’s High Courts.
This process is initiated when the President, based on a report from the Governor, determines that a situation has arisen where the state government cannot operate in accordance with the provisions of the Constitution.