Resignation of Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh: An Overview + UPSC?.ToString()?? UPSC?.ToString()+" Current Affairs";

Why in the News?
On February 9, 2025, N. Biren Singh, the Chief Minister of Manipur, tendered his resignation to Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla in Imphal. This decision followed a meeting with Union Home Minister Amit Shah in New Delhi. The resignation comes amid prolonged ethnic tensions and violence in the state, which have resulted in significant loss of life and displacement. 
Key Takeaways
Ethnic Clashes: Manipur has been experiencing ongoing ethnic clashes between the Meitei and Kuki communities over economic benefits and job quotas. The conflict has resulted in at least 250 deaths and displaced 60,000 people. 
Political Pressure: N. Biren Singh, a member of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), faced mounting pressure from both opposition parties and allies due to his handling of the crisis. The opposition Congress party was expected to move a no-confidence motion against him in the upcoming legislative assembly session. 
Governor's Response: Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla accepted Singh's resignation and requested him to continue in office until alternative arrangements are made. 
Do You Know?
N.Biren Singh's Background: Before entering politics, N. Biren Singh was a footballer and journalist. He has been serving as the Chief Minister of Manipur since March 2017. 
Static Points about Chief Minister Removal in the Indian Constitution
Tenure and Appointment: The Chief Minister is appointed by the Governor and holds office during the pleasure of the Governor. However, in practice, a Chief Minister's tenure is contingent upon maintaining the confidence of the state's legislative assembly. 
No-Confidence Motion: A Chief Minister can be compelled to resign if they lose the confidence of the legislative assembly, typically demonstrated through a no-confidence motion. If such a motion is passed, the entire council of ministers, including the Chief Minister, must resign. 
President's Rule: If no party or coalition can form a government, or if the state government cannot function according to constitutional provisions, the President of India can impose President's Rule under Article 356. This leads to the dissolution of the state council of ministers, including the Chief Minister, and the state legislature may be either suspended or dissolved. 
Conclusion
The resignation of N. Biren Singh as Manipur's Chief Minister underscores the challenges faced by state leadership amid ethnic tensions and political pressures. It also highlights the constitutional mechanisms in place for the removal or resignation of a Chief Minister in India.