Question

Parliament has adopted a Statutory Resolution confirming the imposition of the President’s Rule in Manipur, with the Rajya Sabha giving its nod early this morning. The Statutory Resolution is related to the Proclamation issued by the President on the 13th of February this year (2025) under Article 356(1) of the Constitution in relation to Manipur. The Lok Sabha has already approved it.

In this context, answer the following questions:

1. What is referred to as President’s Rule? When can it be proclaimed?
2. What is the duration of such an emergency? State two conditions under which such an emergency can be extended beyond one year.
3. State the effect of the emergency on the administration of the State.

Answer 1

1. Meaning and Proclamation of President’s Rule:
   • President’s Rule: This refers to a State Emergency where the constitutional machinery of a state breaks down, resulting in the suspension of the state government and the imposition of direct rule by the Central Government.
   • Proclaimed: It can be proclaimed by the President if they are satisfied, either through a report from the State Governor or otherwise, that a situation has arisen where the government of that state cannot function in accordance with the provisions of the Constitution.
2. Duration and Conditions for Extension:
   • Initial Duration: Once approved by a simple majority in both Houses of Parliament, President’s Rule remains in force for six months. It can be extended for up to three years, with parliamentary approval required every six months.
   • Conditions for Extension Beyond One Year: To extend it beyond one year, the following two conditions must be met:
     1. A National Emergency must be active in the entire country or in the whole or any part of that specific State.
     2. The Election Commission must certify that general elections to the State Legislative Assembly cannot be held due to structural difficulties.
3. Effect on State Administration:
   • Executive Control: The President dismisses the State Council of Ministers, headed by the Chief Minister, and the administration is carried out by the Governor on the President’s behalf, typically assisted by appointed advisors.
   • Legislative Control: The State Legislative Assembly is either dissolved or placed under suspended animation, and the power to frame laws and pass the state budget shifts completely to the Parliament.