Manipur government has decided to extend the controversial Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA) 1958 in the state for one more year from December 1. The decision to extend the AFPSA was taken last evening during a cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister O Ibobi Singh.As per provisions of the act, the Governor would issue an official gazette notification declaring the state as disturbed area under which the AFSPA could be extended. Under its provisions, power is given to even a non-commissioned Army person to shoot any suspect, even to death, if the latter acts in contravention of law.Sources said seven assembly segments in and around Imphal municipal areas would not come under the purview of the disturbed area status because the act had been withdrawn from these assembly constituencies in 2004 following an agitation.The act was first promulgated in the entire state in September 1980 when insurgency movement by different outfits, waging an armed struggle for an independent Manipur, was at its peak.Well-known social activist Irom Sharmila Chanu had completed 10 years of fast unto death on November 2, demanding withdrawal of the act from Manipur after Assam Rifles personnel shot dead ten civilians on November 2, 2002, at Imphal airport area. She is being fed through nose since she began her protest.
News On AIR | November 21, 2010 12:29 PM
Manipur govt to extend AFSPA for one more year