The Manipur Pradesh Congress Committee (MPCC) has questioned the constitutional validity of the 12th Manipur Legislative Assembly, citing a possible lapse in procedure following the suspension of its session and the imposition of President’s Rule earlier this year.

In a memorandum submitted to Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla, the MPCC demanded a formal clarification on whether the Assembly remains constitutionally valid or stands automatically dissolved due to inaction.

Speaking to reporters, MPCC representative Ningombam Bhupenda stated that the last session of the Assembly was held on August 12, 2024. A new session was scheduled for February 10, 2025, as per a notification issued by the Governor on January 24. However, the session was abruptly revoked on February 9, just hours after Chief Minister N. Biren Singh resigned and his Council of Ministers stood dissolved.

The Congress party argued that the cancellation of the February session has violated Article 174 of the Constitution, which mandates that no more than six months should elapse between two sessions of a legislative assembly. This, the party claimed, may have resulted in a constitutional breakdown, warranting the Assembly’s automatic dissolution.

The MPCC also questioned the Governor’s authority to revoke a session once it has been summoned, warning that any future attempt to reconvene the Assembly without resolving this issue could lead to legal complications—especially if a floor test or new government formation is initiated.

Manipur has been under President’s Rule since February 13, 2025. Although the Assembly is officially in suspended animation, the Congress believes the constitutional requirements for its continuation have not been met.

The party has urged the Governor to issue a clear statement on whether the Assembly still exists or has ceased to function. It warned that it may seek legal recourse if the ambiguity is not addressed.

With no timeline for the restoration of an elected government, the issue has further deepened the political uncertainty in the crisis-hit state.