New Delhi: The Ministry of Home Affairs on Thursday imposed President’s Rule in Manipur, days after Chief Minister N Biren Singh resigned from his post on February 9.

The Manipur assembly has also been put under suspended animation.

“It has been an honour to serve the people of Manipur thus far. I am extremely grateful to the central government for timely actions, interventions, developmental work and implementation of various projects for safeguarding the interests of every single Manipur,” Singh wrote in his resignation letter.

Governor A.K. Bhalla accepted Singh’s resignation and requested him to continue in office until alternative arrangements are made.

The Governoralso canceled the Budget session, which was set to begin on Monday, after Chief Minister N. Biren Singh resigned on Sunday.

President’s Rule was invoked under Article 356 of the Constitution, which allows the president to take direct control of a state based on the recommendation of the Union Council of Ministers.

"Whereas, I, Droupadi Murmu. President of India, have received a report from the Governor of the State of Manipur and after considering the report and other information received by me, I am satisfied that a situation has arisen in which the Government of that State cannot be carried on in accordance with the provisions of the Constitution of India," the MHA notification read.

"Now, therefore, in exercise of the powers conferred by article 356 of the Constitution. and of all other powers enabling me in that behalf, I hereby proclaim that I —(a) assume to myself as President of India all functions of the Government of the State of Manipur and all powers vested in or exercisable by the Governor of the that State," it added.

Manipur has been grappling with ethnic violence since May 2023, with clashes between the Imphal Valley-based Meitei community and the hill-based Kuki-Zo groups. More than 250 people have been killed, and thousands have been displaced.