Biren Singh, Amit Shah Discuss Manipur Government Formation
Biren Singh and Amit Shah discuss Manipur government formation and internal differences.
Photo by WAIKHOM JAMES
Key Facts
Meeting: Biren Singh and Amit Shah in Delhi
Discussion: Manipur government formation
Focus: Conducive environment, internal differences
President's Rule: Since February 13, 2025
UPSC Exam Angles
GS Paper II: Polity and Governance - Structure, organization and functioning of the Executive and the Judiciary
GS Paper III: Internal Security - Linkages between development and spread of extremism
Potential question types: Statement-based, analytical, and current affairs focused
Visual Insights
Manipur: Political Situation
Map showing Manipur and its surrounding states, highlighting the current political instability and President's Rule.
Loading interactive map...
More Information
Background
The political landscape of Manipur has been shaped by its unique history and diverse ethnic composition. The region's integration into India was a gradual process, formally completed in 1949. Prior to this, Manipur was a princely state with its own constitution and governance structures.
The subsequent decades witnessed the rise of various insurgent groups, fueled by socio-economic disparities, ethnic tensions, and a sense of alienation from the Indian mainstream. These groups have often demanded greater autonomy or even complete secession. The Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA), enacted in 1958 and applied to Manipur, has been a contentious issue, criticized for granting excessive powers to security forces and contributing to human rights violations.
The state's political dynamics are further complicated by the presence of multiple ethnic communities, each with its own distinct interests and aspirations.
Latest Developments
In recent years, there has been a renewed focus on addressing the root causes of insurgency in Manipur through development initiatives and dialogue. The central and state governments have been working to engage with various stakeholders, including insurgent groups, civil society organizations, and community leaders. Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreements have been signed with several insurgent groups, providing a framework for negotiations and a cessation of hostilities.
However, challenges remain in achieving a lasting peace, including the need to address the underlying grievances of different communities, ensure equitable development, and promote reconciliation. The ongoing efforts to restore normalcy and establish a stable government in Manipur are crucial for the state's long-term stability and prosperity. The Centre's inclination to form a popular government before the upcoming elections indicates a commitment to democratic processes and addressing the concerns of the local population.
Practice Questions (MCQs)
1. Consider the following statements regarding the imposition of President's Rule in a state: 1. The Governor of the state recommends the imposition of President's Rule under Article 356 of the Constitution. 2. The proclamation imposing President's Rule must be approved by both Houses of Parliament within two months. 3. During President's Rule, the Governor administers the state on behalf of the President. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- A.1 and 2 only
- B.2 and 3 only
- C.1 and 3 only
- D.1, 2 and 3
Show Answer
Answer: D
All three statements are correct. Article 356 deals with President's Rule, the proclamation needs parliamentary approval within two months, and the Governor administers the state on behalf of the President during this period.
2. In the context of insurgency in Northeast India, consider the following statements: 1. Socio-economic disparities and a feeling of alienation from the mainstream are major drivers of insurgency. 2. The Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA) has been uniformly welcomed by all sections of the population in the region. 3. The Sixth Schedule of the Constitution provides for autonomous district councils in certain tribal areas of the Northeast. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- A.1 and 2 only
- B.2 and 3 only
- C.1 and 3 only
- D.1, 2 and 3
Show Answer
Answer: C
Statement 1 is correct as socio-economic factors are key drivers. Statement 3 is correct regarding the Sixth Schedule. Statement 2 is incorrect as AFSPA is controversial and not universally welcomed.
3. Which of the following committees/commissions is/are associated with the reorganization of states in India? 1. Dhar Commission 2. JVP Committee 3. Fazal Ali Commission Select the correct answer using the code given below:
- A.1 only
- B.1 and 2 only
- C.2 and 3 only
- D.1, 2 and 3
Show Answer
Answer: D
All three, Dhar Commission, JVP Committee, and Fazal Ali Commission, were associated with the reorganization of states in India after independence.