IT News
Imphal, Feb 16:
The Federation of Civil Society Organizations (FOCS), Manipur, has strongly opposed the imposition of President’s Rule in the state, stating that it is an attempt by the Central Government to exert full control over Manipur under the pretext of law and order concerns.
In a statement, FOCS pointed out that since Chief Minister N. Biren Singh submitted his resignation to the Governor on February 9, 2025, the state has been left without a legislative leader. The organization argued that instead of facilitating a political resolution, the Central Government has taken advantage of the situation by placing the state under President’s Rule (Suspended Animation). FOCS claimed that this move was not aimed at restoring peace but rather at asserting direct authority over the state’s affairs.
The organization further alleged that the Chin-Kuki-Zo communities had been destabilizing Manipur’s territorial integrity for the past two years. It accused certain village volunteers of systematically targeting and occupying land in strategic areas, leading to further tension and instability. Given the worsening situation, FOCS maintained that the imposition of President’s Rule was not a solution and warned that it could escalate the conflict, pushing the state closer to civil unrest.
FOCS criticized the role of Central Paramilitary Forces (CAPF) deployed in the state, alleging that they had failed to protect Meitei villages while ensuring security for Kuki settlements. The organization claimed that CAPF personnel had harassed local Meitei women-led vigilante groups (Meira Paibis) while neglecting to take action against land encroachments by Kuki groups.
Expressing concerns over the ongoing displacement crisis, FOCS stated that thousands of internally displaced persons (IDPs) continued to suffer in relief camps, with no real efforts being made to rehabilitate them. The organization urged the Central Government to take immediate steps to address the grievances of the affected population instead of imposing military-like governance through President’s Rule.
FOCS further warned that the current political situation was fostering division among the people and deepening communal tensions. The organization called for a genuine and fair political resolution to restore peace in Manipur, emphasizing that President’s Rule should not be used as an excuse to suppress the voices of the people.
