AFSPA extended for a year in Manipur

Barring seven Assembly constituencies within Imphal Municipal area, the controversial Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act 1958 will be extended for another year in insurgency-hit Manipur from Sunday.

The Act will be enforced in all the districts of the State except seven Assembly constituencies of Wangkhei, Yaiskul, Thangmeiband, Uripok, Sagolband, Shingjamei and Khurai, all in Imphal municipal areas.

The decision to extend the Act was taken in a Cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh, government spokesman M. Okendro said.

The Act has been enforced in the state for more than two decades after it was extended annually. The duration of the last extension expires this evening.

The Act was removed from the seven Assembly constituencies about a year ago following intense agitation demanding its withdrawal from the entire State.

Social activist Irom Chanu Sharmila has been on fast unto death for more than 13 years demanding repeal of the Act after killing of 10 civilians by Assam Rifles near Imphal airport on November 2, 2000.

The Act gives extra powers to security forces to deal with insurgents and if anyone wants to fight against the forces for any violation of human rights, he or she has to get permission from the Union government.