Manipur govt extends AFSPA in state for 6 months

Imphal: The Manipur government has extended the imposition of the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA) in the whole State for another six months with effect from Monday (April 1, 2024).

But the imposition of this draconian law spares municipal areas of the capital city Imphal and places that lie in the jurisdiction of 19 police stations.

In an order, Devesh Deval, Commissioner (Home), Manipur government said that Governor Anusuiya Uikey has declared Manipur, except for the 19 police stations, as a “disturbed area” under the provisions of the Act.

The decision to extend AFSPA has met with opposition from various quarters, including the Kuki-Zo community and other organizations, who have long called for the repeal of this controversial law.

Civil society organizations representing the Meiteis, Nagas, and Kukis across the northeastern states have united in their demand for the abolition of these laws, which grant sweeping powers to the armed forces.

Under AFSPA, the armed forces are authorized to take action including killing individuals suspected of contravening the law, conducting arrests and searches without warrants, and enjoying immunity from prosecution without the sanction of the Central government.