Amid escalating ethnic tension and a looming extension of President’s Rule, Puneet Kumar Goel officially assumed charge as Manipur chief secretary. His arrival in Imphal on July 20 marks a significant administrative shift—one made as security forces recently arrested militants and recovered arms caches in the region.
With this move, the Centre signals a renewed focus on governance and stability in a state battered by violence and divided opinions.
Why His Appointment Matters Now
Manipur fell under President’s Rule on February 13, 2025, after Chief Minister N. Biren Singh resigned amid growing unrest . Since then, the legislature has remained suspended, and debates over returning to a democratically elected government continue to intensify.
Given this context, when Goel steps in, observers expect administrative control coupled with political sensitivity. Indeed, while he brings strong credentials, his leadership will face stern tests.
He Inherits a Tough Security Scenario
In recent days, Meghalaya had further complicated Manipur’s fragile peace. Authorities detained militants from outfits including UPPK, KCP (PWG), PREPAK, and PLA, and uncovered firearms and explosives in Churachandpur district. These events indicated that militant activity persists despite government efforts to restore calm.
Moreover, the timing of these arrests, combined with an arms recovery, suggests that law enforcement currently focuses on asserting control over the region.
Goel’s Profile and Mandate
Of the 1991 AGMUT cadre, Puneet Kumar Goel brings impressive experience. He served as Chief Secretary in Goa, and then as Secretary of the National Commission for Scheduled Tribes. The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet approved his shift to Manipur on July 16.
On July 20, Imphal airport received Goel with state officials led by Commissioner (Home) Ashok Kumar. The official handover happened at the Old Secretariat, with outgoing CS Prashant Kumar Singh formally passing the baton.
Steering Administration Amid Political Uncertainty
Firstly, Goel must command administrative coherence while political stability remains elusive. The Manipur Democratic Alliance (MDA) recently called for fresh elections by August rather than extending President’s Rule.
Meanwhile, the Centre must decide by mid-August whether to prolong central rule in Manipur . Consequently, Goel’s role includes ensuring law and order while collaborating with the Union government on governance strategy.
Key Tasks Ahead for Chief Secretary Goel
1. Restore Governance Systems
Goel must realign Temple of Governance: reinstating civil services, resuming administration, and coordinating with security forces to quell unrest. He will also work on ensuring rehabilitation of displaced families from both Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities.
2. Dismantle Militant Networks
Given recent militant arrests, Goel must oversee operations to follow every intelligence lead. He needs to streamline coordination among Manipur Police, the Indian Army, and central security agencies.
3. Engage Community Stakeholders
Moreover, he must open dialogue with local leaders, NGOs, and civil society groups to build trust and support for returning to elected government.
Why Leadership Change Could Make a Difference
Goel’s appointment goes beyond bureaucratic reassignment. Firstly, he reflects Delhi’s bid to reset administration; secondly, his background suggests sensitivity toward tribal issues and policy coordination—assets critical for reconciling communities divided by violence.
If he executes a transparent, inclusive, and strategic administration, he could help pave the path toward civil rule and lasting peace, avoiding governance lapses that worsened the unrest.
Support Peace & Administration
We urge the public, civil society, and political groups to:
- Cooperate with security forces and government efforts
- Voice concerns through peaceful channels
- Encourage displaced persons to utilize relief services
- Stay informed via official updates on Manipur government portals and local media
Together, such cooperation will help accelerate restoration, reduce violence, and move Manipur toward democratic governance.
READ MORE: Eklavya Schools Tripura: 6 New Campuses Launching This August
As Puneet Kumar Goel assumes charge as Manipur chief secretary, the state stands at an administrative crossroad. His leadership will test whether decisive governance, community outreach, and law enforcement can collectively stabilize a region long embroiled in unrest. Thus, every stakeholder must play their part—for peace, prosperity, and a return to democratic ru