Manipur Crisis Deepens as President Rule Becomes Likely

Manipur - The northeastern state of Manipur is once again at the crossroads of political instability and ethnic strife. The recent resignation of Chief Minister N. Biren Singh, amidst prolonged ethnic clashes between the Meitei and Kuki communities, has left a leadership vacuum that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is struggling to fill. With no consensus on a successor, the imposition of President Rule looms large over the state.  

The ethnic violence, which has claimed at least 250 lives and displaced thousands over the past two years, has been a significant factor in the current political crisis. The BJP's central leadership is reportedly considering placing the state assembly under suspended animation and imposing President Rule to restore order and buy time to find a suitable leader.  

However, this potential move has been met with mixed reactions. The opposition Congress party has vehemently opposed the idea, advocating instead for a democratically elected government to uphold the state's democratic fabric. Manipur Congress President Keisham Meghachandra Singh emphasized the need for a popular government, stating that the party stands against any move to impose President Rule or suspend the legislative assembly.  

On the other hand, certain groups, particularly from the Kuki-Zo community, view President Rule as a necessary step. They argue that direct governance by the Centre could provide a neutral platform to address the state's deep-rooted issues.