Manipur Government Urgently Appeals for AFSPA Withdrawal: A Bold Move for Peace and Progress in Northeast
The Manipur Government has formally requested the Central Government to revoke the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA), 1958, from areas governed by six police stations in the state. This decision emerged from a State Cabinet meeting held on Friday, during which the Cabinet decided to urge the Centre to review the AFSPA status for the jurisdictions of Sekmai, Lamsang, Lamlai, Jiribam, Leimakhong, and Moirang police stations.
A communication from the Joint Secretary (Home) emphasized the Cabinet’s position, noting, “The state cabinet has deliberated upon the reimposition of AFSPA in its meeting on November 15 and decided to recommend a review and withdrawal of the declared disturbed areas falling under these jurisdictions in accordance with Section 3 of the AFSPA 1958.” The letter further requested an assessment to annul the Central notification dated November 14, 2024, citing public interest.
Previously, the Ministry of Home Affairs reinstated AFSPA in the regions covered by these police stations due to ongoing unrest and ethnic violence. This move coincided with a major arms and ammunition seizure announced by Manipur police in the Jiribam and Churachandpur districts.
The Disturbed Area status, under AFSPA since 1980, was partially lifted from sections of Imphal in 2004 following significant protests triggered by the killing of Thangjam Manorama. AFSPA permits extensive powers to the armed forces to conduct operations, including search and detain actions, as well as the use of force if necessary.
The Manipur Government’s appeal seeks to ease tensions by eliminating the militarized oversight AFSPA enforces, arguing it is crucial for restoring normalcy and public confidence in these communities. This development fits into a larger narrative of balancing security with civil rights in conflict-afflicted regions.
Original Story https://nenews.in/manipur/manipur-govt-asks-centre-to-withdraw-afspa-from-six-police-station-areas/15733/
Category : Manipur,Armed Forces Special Powers Act,Manipur government
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Publish Date: 2024-11-17 15:05:00
