New Delhi: Amid continued unrest in Manipur, Union Home Minister Amit Shah held a security review meeting at the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) on Saturday, focusing on strategies to ensure peace and stability. The meeting was attended by Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla and senior state officials.

Manipur under President’s rule

The security review follows the resignation of Chief Minister N Biren Singh on February 9 and the imposition of President’s Rule on February 13. With the BJP-led state government failing to control violence, the Manipur Legislative Assembly has been placed under suspended animation, with its powers now resting with Parliament.

Manipur has been grappling with ethnic clashes between the Meitei and Kuki-Zomi communities since May 3, 2023, when violence erupted following a rally by the All Tribal Students Union (ATSU) against the Meitei community’s demand for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status.

The violence has displaced thousands and led to widespread destruction of property, with repeated incidents of blockades, arson, and armed clashes.

Amit Shah’s directives for Manipur security

During the security review meeting, Amit Shah directed:

  • Ensuring free movement of people across Manipur’s roads from March 8
  • Strict action against those obstructing roads or engaging in violence
  • Strengthening security deployments to prevent further clashes

The Home Ministry is closely monitoring the situation, with reports suggesting increased deployment of central forces to restore normalcy.

Previous security meetings on Manipur

This is not the first time Amit Shah has chaired high-level discussions on Manipur’s crisis. In November 2024, he held a similar review meeting with officials in the national capital to assess the state’s deteriorating law-and-order situation.

With President’s Rule in effect, the Union Government now holds direct control over the state administration. While authorities aim to curb violence and rebuild governance structures, the political future of Manipur remains uncertain.