The Parliament's Monsoon Session is currently underway, with key discussions and debates taking center stage. Among the prominent issues being addressed are the extension of President's Rule in Manipur and concerns raised by the Congress party regarding the imposition of tariffs by the United States.

Manipur's Presidential Rule Debate

The Rajya Sabha has allocated two hours for a debate on a resolution seeking to extend President's Rule in Manipur for another six months, starting August 13, 2025. Deputy Chairman Harivansh announced the decision following a meeting of the Business Advisory Committee. Union Home Minister Amit Shah submitted the resolution for approval. The notice stated that the House approves the continuance in force of the Proclamation dated February 13, 2025, in respect of Manipur, issued under Article 356 of the Constitution by the President.

Manipur was placed under President's Rule on February 13, 2025, after the resignation of former Chief Minister N. Biren Singh. The imposition of President's Rule followed escalating ethnic violence between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities, which has resulted in at least 260 deaths and the displacement of thousands since May 2023.

Minister of State for Home Affairs Nityanand Rai asserted that peace and normalcy were returning to Manipur. He noted that only one incident of violence with one death had been reported in the last eight months, and none in the last four months. Rai added that over 2,500 weapons, 1,900 explosives, and 30,000 rounds of ammunition had been recovered since the imposition of President's Rule. He attributed the violence to certain aspects of directions in a High Court order related to reservations, maintaining that the conflict was ethnic and not religious.

Efforts to form a new government continue, with BJP-backed Meitei and Naga MLAs engaged in negotiations. Officials view the extension of central rule as vital for restoring order and creating conditions for a return to democratic governance in the conflict-hit state.

Congress to Raise US Tariff Issue

The Congress party is expected to raise the issue of tariffs imposed by the United States during the Monsoon Session. US President Donald Trump announced a 25% tariff on goods from India, along with an additional import tax, due to India's purchase of Russian oil. Trump stated that India's tariffs on US goods were too high and that India buys military equipment and oil from Russia, enabling the war in Ukraine.

Congress leaders have criticized the Modi government's foreign policy and questioned Prime Minister Modi's silence on Trump's claims of brokering a ceasefire between India and Pakistan. They argue that the tariffs will be disastrous for the Indian economy and compromise India's national interests. Congress General Secretary K.C. Venugopal demanded an explanation from the Prime Minister on how the government plans to navigate the situation.

Opposition parties have accused the government of compromising national security and sovereignty by linking it to trade. They are expected to demand a statement from the government in Parliament on the impact of the US tariffs on India. Prime Minister Modi reportedly held a meeting with the Commerce and Industry Minister, External Affairs Minister, and senior officials to assess the implications of the tariffs.