AFSPA to be extended by another one year in Manipur

Imphal, Dec 2: The Armed Forces Special Powers Act 1958 will be extended by another one year in Manipur except the Imphal Municipal areas.

As approved by the State Cabinet, all of Manipur except the Municipal areas have been declared as Disturbed Area from Dec 1, 2017, said M Yaiskul, Special Secretary Home. The exemption of the Imphal Municipal Areas covering seven Assembly constituencies of Thangmeiband, Uripok, Sagolband, Keishamthong, Yaiskul , Singjamei and Wangkhei became effective from 2004 following a massive protest against the alleged rape and murder of Thangjam Manorama by 17 Assam Rifles personnel on 10 July 2004. The army is empowered to kill anybody on mere suspicion in the areas where AFSPA is imposed. Irom Sharmila became an iconic figure after she launched the longest fast unto death stir demanding repeal of AFSPA. UNI