Government Extends Deadline for Manipur Violence Inquiry Commission to 2026

The central government has extended the deadline for the inquiry commission investigating the 2023 violence in Manipur to May 20, 2026. This marks the fourth extension for the commission, which is tasked with examining the causes of the ethnic violence that resulted in significant casualties and displacement. The commission, led by former Chief Justice Ajay Lamba, will investigate the sequence of events leading to the riots and assess the adequacy of administrative responses. The ongoing ethnic tensions in Manipur have raised concerns about restoring normalcy in the region, especially following the imposition of President's Rule.

By Narendra Chaudhary Dec 17, 2025, 09:42 IST

Extension Granted for Inquiry Commission Report

The central government has once again extended the deadline for the inquiry commission investigating the violent incidents in Manipur that occurred in 2023, now allowing until May 20, 2026, for the submission of its report. A notification from the Ministry of Home Affairs stated that the commission is expected to present its findings to the government "as soon as possible, but before May 20, 2026."

The commission was tasked with examining the causes and spread of violence and riots targeting members of different communities. Formed on June 4, 2023, following ethnic violence that erupted on May 3, 2023, the three-member commission is chaired by former Chief Justice of the Guwahati High Court, Ajay Lamba, alongside retired IAS officer Himanshu Shekhar Das and retired IPS officer Alok Prabhakar.

Multiple Extensions Granted

The panel has received three extensions for submitting its report, with previous deadlines set for September 13, 2024, December 3, 2024, and May 20, 2025, making this the fourth extension.

According to the commission's mandate, it is responsible for investigating the sequence of events leading to the violence, any lapses or negligence by responsible officials, and the adequacy of administrative measures taken to prevent and address the riots.

Background of the Violence

In its previous extension, the Ministry of Home Affairs had set a deadline of November 20 for the commission to submit its report. The commission will also consider complaints or allegations presented by any individual or organization.

The notification from the Ministry on June 4, 2023, indicated that widespread violence erupted in Manipur on May 3, resulting in numerous fatalities and injuries among residents. It also noted that arson led to the destruction of homes and properties, leaving many individuals homeless.

The Manipur government had recommended the formation of a judicial commission under the provisions of the Commission of Inquiry Act, 1952, to investigate the causes of the crisis and the unfortunate events that occurred on and after May 3, 2023.

Ethnic Tensions in Manipur

Based on this recommendation, the central government appointed a commission to investigate the violence, which flared up when the Kuki-Zo tribal communities in the hill districts opposed a High Court recommendation to grant Scheduled Tribe (ST) status to members of the Meitei community.

The ethnic violence between the Meitei community residing in the Imphal Valley and the Kuki-Zo groups in the surrounding hills has resulted in at least 260 deaths and left thousands displaced.

Current Situation in Manipur

Currently, President's Rule is in effect in Manipur, which was imposed on February 13, 2025, following the resignation of then Chief Minister N. Biren Singh on February 9.

Since taking office as the Governor of Manipur on January 3, Ajay Kumar Bhalla has been meeting with various individuals to gather feedback on restoring normalcy in the northeastern state.