Imphal, Mar 29: Union Home Minister Amit Shah has stated that President’s Rule was imposed in Manipur at the right time to restore normalcy in the state. He assured that the situation is improving, with both the Meitei and Kuki communities engaging in discussions to establish lasting peace.

“Normal life has resumed. The Home Ministry has held separate meetings with both communities, and they have also started direct discussions. Things are gradually moving in a positive direction, and there is no reason for concern now,” Shah said.

He emphasized that President’s Rule was enforced only when both communities were prepared to accept it. “Unless both communities agreed, it would not have been effective. We imposed it at the appropriate time,” he added.

The decision came after the resignation of Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh on February 9. The Ministry of Home Affairs issued a notification invoking Article 356 of the Constitution, stating that President Droupadi Murmu had determined that the state government could no longer function as per constitutional provisions. As a result, the President assumed all executive powers of the Manipur government.

Manipur has been witnessing ethnic violence since May 2023, with clashes between the Imphal Valley-based Meitei community and the Kuki-Zo tribals from the hill regions. The unrest, triggered by a ‘Tribal Solidarity March’ opposing the Meitei community’s demand for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status, has led to over 260 deaths and the displacement of thousands.