Manipur Under President’s Rule: Army Steps In as Ethnic Tensions Persist

IMPHAL: With the Modi government imposing President’s Rule in Manipur following Chief Minister N. Biren Singh’s resignation under pressure from the Centre, the Indian Army has stepped up its presence in the conflict-ridden state. The move comes amid escalating ethnic tensions between the Nagas and Kukis, which the state government failed to contain.

 Director General Military Operations (DGMO) Lieutenant General Rajiv Ghai visited Manipur on February 24 and 25, 2025, to assess the security situation along the Indo-Myanmar Border (IMB) and inspect the progress of ongoing border infrastructure projects.

The visit is being viewed as part of the Centre’s strategy to tighten border control and restore order in the violence-hit state.

During his two-day tour, Lieutenant General Ghai met with Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla, the State Security Advisor, Chief Secretary, and Director General of Police.

Sources said the discussions focused on enhancing operational coordination between the Army and state administration, particularly in fringe areas where violence has been most severe.

“The DGMO stressed the need for a ‘whole-of-government approach’ to normalize the situation, with a special emphasis on strengthening border management to curb cross-border movement of insurgents,” a senior official told Himbu Mail.

The timing of the Army’s high-level visit, barely weeks after Biren Singh’s exit, has raised eyebrows. Many political observers see it as a signal that the Centre is no longer willing to rely solely on local governance to address the crisis.

With the imposition of President’s Rule, the security apparatus appears to be taking the lead in restoring law and order, raising concerns about potential militarization of civilian areas.

While the Army maintains that its role is limited to assisting civil authorities, the increased military presence along the IMB reflects growing concerns over the porous border, which is often exploited by armed groups.

Lieutenant General Ghai’s emphasis on border infrastructure aligns with New Delhi’s broader strategy of securing its northeastern frontier, but critics argue that militarizing the region could further alienate local communities.

As Manipur remains on edge, the Centre’s next steps will be closely watched. For now, with the state under direct Central control and the Army playing a more active role, the road to peace appears uncertain.