New Delhi, April 3, 2025 - The Lok Sabha early Thursday ratified the imposition of President's Rule in Manipur, a move that saw support from across the political spectrum, albeit with significant criticism directed at the central government regarding its handling of the prolonged ethnic unrest in the northeastern state. The confirmation came after a brief discussion that followed the passage of the Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2025 in a late-night session.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah, addressing the Lok Sabha, asserted that the government had undertaken all possible measures to restore normalcy in Manipur. He stated that there had been no violence in the state for the preceding four months and that the situation was largely peaceful and under control, although he acknowledged it was not entirely satisfactory due to the continued presence of people in relief camps. Shah also informed the House about ongoing discussions with both the Meitei and Kuki communities aimed at achieving a peaceful resolution. He attributed the initial outbreak of violence to a directive from the Manipur High Court and emphasized the swift deployment of central forces in response.
Despite supporting the imposition of President's Rule, opposition parties voiced strong criticism of the central government's handling of the Manipur crisis. Congress leader Shashi Tharoor, while backing the resolution, stressed the critical need for the restoration of peace and stability, highlighting the reported looting of a substantial number of arms and ammunition from state armories. DMK MP Kanimozhi strongly objected to the late-night scheduling of the debate, questioning the government's commitment to addressing the issue with due seriousness. Other opposition members, including Sayani Ghosh (TMC), Arvind Sawant (Shiv Sena UBT), and Supriya Sule (NCP-SCP), echoed concerns about the prevailing situation and called for the prompt restoration of peace and normalcy in the region.
On the ground, security forces continued their operations, apprehending two militants in separate incidents over the past 24 hours. A woman cadre of KCP (PWG) was arrested in Imphal West district, and an active cadre of the PLA was apprehended in Imphal East district. Search operations across various parts of the state resulted in the recovery of arms, ammunition, and explosives, including a Carbine rifle, magazines, live ammunition, and radio sets. Authorities also arrested an individual in Bishnupur district for possession of suspected brown sugar. The Manipur Police stated that the situation in the state was "tense but under control".
Adding to the complexities, an indefinite shutdown imposed by Kuki organizations in Senapati district since March 8th continued to disrupt normal life, leaving over 300 vehicles stranded. The shutdown was initiated to protest alleged crackdowns by security forces and to demand a judicial inquiry into an incident earlier in March.
In other legislative matters, the Lok Sabha also passed the Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2025 after an extensive debate lasting over 12 hours. This bill, aimed at amending laws related to Waqf properties, was the primary focus before the discussion on Manipur commenced late into the night.
The confirmation of President's Rule in Manipur marks a significant development in the central government's direct involvement in the state's administration. However, the opposition's strong criticism highlights the considerable challenges that remain in achieving lasting peace and stability in the troubled region. The effectiveness of President's Rule in addressing the deep-seated ethnic divisions and restoring normalcy will be closely watched in the days to come.
Summary of Opposition Concerns Regarding Manipur During Lok Sabha Debate (April 3, 2025)
| Congress | Delay in imposing President's Rule, need for genuine peace and inclusivity, high number of looted arms. |
| Trinamool Congress | Need for early restoration of peace. |
| DMK | Objection to late-night debate timing, call for an end to divisive politics and restoration of elected government. |
| Shiv Sena (UBT) | Concern over the prevailing situation and the need for peace. |
| NCP (SCP) | President's Rule is not good for democracy, need for strong intervention from the Home Minister to restore normalcy. |
Security Operations in Manipur (April 2-3, 2025)
| April 3 | Thongju Part-II Leirak Macha: Arrest of a woman cadre of KCP (PWG). One militant arrested. |
| Sanjenbam Khullen: Arrest of an active cadre of PLA. One militant arrested. | |
| Mollum village & adjoining areas: Search operation resulted in the recovery of two Baofeng handheld sets and one BP Jacket with a plate. | |
| Khangabok Loukol: Search operation led to the recovery of one Carbine, three magazines, and 50 rounds of 9mm live ammunition. | |
| Bishnupur district: Operation related to drug trafficking resulted in the arrest of one individual (Faiju Rahaman) and seizure of 12 soap caps (approx. 661.8 grams) of brown sugar. |