Centre and Manipur Government to Review AFSPA

The Centre and Manipur government are set to review the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA) in October, 2024.

Key Points

Differing Views on AFSPA Expansion: The Union government and the State hold differing views on extending AFSPA to more areas.
Security Situation in Manipur: The "disturbed area" status remains in all hill districts, while AFSPA has been gradually withdrawn from valley districts since 2022 due to improved security. The act was withdrawn from Imphal municipality in 2004.
Rising Concerns over Armed Men and Violence: A Union official cited an alarming increase in armed men and rising cases of extortion and abductions.
State Government’s Response to Violence: A State official stated the current situation is not as dire as the 1990s, and police are actively making arrests, with 533 made in the last 16 months.
Ethnic Violence and Casualties: Since May 2023, ethnic violence between the tribal Kuki-Zo and Meitei groups has led to at least 237 deaths. Security incidents and abductions are on the rise.
Insurgent Groups and External Influence: Ethnic violence has reportedly strengthened insurgent groups, many based in Myanmar. The National Investigation Agency (NIA) is investigating transnational conspiracies related to the violence.
History and Scope of AFSPA in Manipur: The 1958 law grants extensive powers to the armed forces in disturbed areas and protects them from prosecution. It has been applied in Manipur since 1981.