1. End of President’s Rule in Manipur and Formation of New Government

Background President’s Rule was imposed in Manipur following prolonged ethnic violence between Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities since May 2023, leading to a breakdown of constitutional machinery. Key Developments • President’s Rule was revoked after nearly one year, restoring an elected government. • A BJP-led NDA government was sworn in. • Yumnam Khemchand Singh assumed office as Chief Minister, representing the Meitei community. • Two Deputy Chief Ministers were appointed from Kuki-Zo and Naga communities, reflecting an inclusive power-sharing arrangement. • The violence resulted in over 260 deaths and large-scale internal displacement, highlighting deep societal fractures. Constitutional & Legal Framework • Article 356: Imposition of President’s Rule in case of failure of constitutional machinery. • Article 355: Duty of the Union to protect States against internal disturbance. • Reinforces debates on Centre–State relations and cooperative federalism. Value Addition (UPSC Angle) • Frequent or prolonged use of Article 356 raises concerns of federal overreach (S.R. Bommai case principles). • Inclusive governance is essential in ethnically diverse border States, especially those with internal security sensitivities. Conclusion The revocation marks constitutional restoration and federal normalcy, but durable peace depends on reconciliation, rehabilitation of displaced persons, and confidence-building between communities. UPSC Relevance: GS Paper II – Federalism, constitutional governance, internal security