Extension of President’s Rule in Manipur

Syllabus: Polity (UPSC GS II, Prelims)
Source: TOI

Context

Parliament has approved a six-month extension of President’s Rule in Manipur, which was first imposed in February 2025.

Understanding President’s Rule

Meaning

• Direct central governance in a state under Article 356 when the state government fails to function as per constitutional norms.

Constitutional Basis

• Article 356 – President takes control of a state’s administration based on the Governor’s report or otherwise.
• Article 365 – Invoked when a state fails to follow Union Government directions.

Imposition Process

1. President issues a proclamation.
2. Approval by both Houses of Parliament within 2 months (simple majority).
3. Duration – 6 months, extendable up to 3 years in six-month intervals with Parliamentary approval.

Conditions for Extension

• Continued failure of constitutional machinery.
• Approval by Lok Sabha & Rajya Sabha every 6 months.
• For extensions beyond 1 year:
  • National Emergency must be in force, or
  • Election Commission certifies elections cannot be held.

Revocation

• Can be withdrawn anytime by the President.
• Usually ends when a new government is elected or majority is restored.

Impact on Governance

• Administration handled by the Governor on behalf of the President.
• State Assembly may be suspended or dissolved.
• Common during unrest, political deadlock, or collapse of majority.

Judicial Safeguard

• S.R. Bommai Case (1994) – Supreme Court restricted misuse of Article 356 for political purposes; ensured judicial review.