MPCC questions validity of Manipur Assembly, seeks governor’s clarification on constitutional status

The Manipur Pradesh Congress Committee (MPCC) has raised serious questions over the current constitutional status of the 12th Manipur Legislative Assembly, following the suspension of its session earlier this year and the imposition of President’s Rule. In a memorandum submitted to Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla, the Congress party demanded a formal clarification on whether the Assembly remains in force or has been rendered dissolved by constitutional default.
Talking to reporters after submitting the memorandum to the Governor office, MPCC representative Ningombam Bhupenda said that, the last sitting of the Manipur Assembly was held on August 12, 2024. A new session was scheduled for February 10, 2025, as per a notification issued by the Governor on January 24. However, the session was abruptly cancelled on February 9, just hours after Chief Minister N. Biren Singh tendered his resignation and his Council of Ministers stood dissolved. The Governor’s decision to revoke the summon has since drawn widespread criticism and legal scrutiny.
The MPCC argued that under Article 174 of the Indian Constitution, no more than six months can elapse between two sessions of a legislative assembly. The cancellation of the February session has, according to the Congress party, led to a constitutional lapse. The party referred to Supreme Court observations in similar cases, noting that such procedural violations could invalidate the current Assembly or lead to its automatic dissolution.
The Congress party also questioned whether the Governor had the constitutional authority to cancel a session once summoned. The memorandum warns that any future move to reconvene the Assembly without resolving this question may result in legal complications, especially if a floor test or a new government formation is attempted.
At present, Manipur remains under President’s Rule, which was imposed on February 13, 2025. While the Assembly is technically under suspended animation, the MPCC believes that the constitutional requirements for its continuation have not been met.
The development has intensified political tensions in the state. The MPCC has urged the Governor to clarify whether the 12th Manipur Legislative Assembly continues to exist, or whether it has effectively ceased to function under constitutional provisions. The party has also warned that it may seek legal recourse if no clarification is forthcoming.
With no clear timeline for restoration of an elected government, and the Assembly’s legal status in doubt, Manipur’s political uncertainty continues to deepen amid an already protracted crisis.