Amit Shah Pushes to Restore Elected Government in Manipur Amid Unrest
Union Home Minister Amit Shah is spearheading efforts to reinstate a democratically elected government in Manipur, currently under President’s Rule since February 13. This move follows urgent appeals from former Chief Minister N. Biren Singh and Rajya Sabha MP Leishemba Sanajaoba, who visited New Delhi to brief the Centre on the escalating crisis in the northeastern state.
Manipur President’s Rule
After resigning on February 9, Biren Singh was succeeded by President’s Rule, imposed amid mounting ethnic violence. Since then, the Legislative Assembly has been suspended, and governance has been transferred to central administration. President’s Rule remains in place due to ongoing unrest and blockades disrupting daily life.
Delegation Briefs Amit Shah
During meetings held late on June 9 and again on June 10, Biren Singh and Sanajaoba conveyed firsthand accounts of blockades, public disorder, and intensifying communal tensions to Amit Shah. The Union Home Minister has responded with multiple community dialogues aimed at de-escalation and has requested grassroots support from MLAs, civic bodies, and citizens to restore order and governance.
Groundwork & Commitments
Amit Shah has reportedly asked the delegation to take on preliminary responsibilities—details yet undisclosed—as part of the process towards governance restoration. He has assured that the Centre is committed to preserving Manipur’s territorial integrity and reinstating elected leadership when stability permits.
Ethnic Tensions & Community Appeals
Ethnic violence between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities—ongoing since May 2023 and responsible for hundreds of fatalities and thousands displaced—has made the situation “highly sensitive.” Shah has appealed for community harmony, urging stakeholders to prioritise peace and democratic processes as the foundation for long-term stability.
Path Back to Elected Rule
The push for reinstating an elected government includes a 30-day extension on migrant verification efforts, seeking consensus to initiate popular governance once conditions allow. A group of 44 MLAs, across party lines, have expressed support for Biren Singh’s return to office, reinforcing Amit Shah’s stated priority for a “popular government” when the situation stabilises.
