Entire State Except 19 Police Stations Affected
In response to ongoing law and order issues, the government of Manipur has declared the entire state, except 19 specific police station areas, as a “disturbed area.” This decision falls under the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA). The government’s notification cites the need for the armed forces to assist civil administration due to the “violent activities of various extremist/insurgent groups” across the state.
Maintaining the Status Quo
The government, considering the overall law and order situation and the capacity of the state machinery, has opted to maintain the disturbed area status for a duration of six months. The excluded police station areas include Imphal, Lamphel, City, Singjamei, and others, where the AFSPA will not be enforced.
Protests Erupt in Imphal
The state capital, Imphal, witnessed significant protests by student groups following the kidnapping and killing of two students, Phijam Hemjit (20) and Hijam Linthoingambi (17), who had been missing since July. Images of the students with two armed individuals and their lifeless bodies sparked outrage. Protests escalated to clashes with the Rapid Action Force (RAF), resulting in 45 protesters sustaining injuries.
Government’s Response
Chief Minister N Biren Singh assured the public of joint efforts by the state and central governments to apprehend the perpetrators. The case has been handed over to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). Substantial police, CRPF, and RAF deployments are in place throughout Imphal and other parts of the state in anticipation of potential unrest.
Internet Services Temporarily Restricted
In response to the protests, the government also imposed a five-day ban on internet services to control the spread of misinformation and potential incitement to violence.
This development underscores the challenges faced by Manipur in maintaining law and order, and the government’s actions aim to address these pressing issues while safeguarding the welfare of its citizens.
