Imphal: The government of Manipur has called on the Modi administration to review and withdraw the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA) from areas under the jurisdiction of six police stations in the state.

According to Kashmir Media Service, the Manipur government communicated this request through a letter, recommending the withdrawal of AFSPA from regions designated as disturbed areas under Section 3 of the AFSPA 1958. The Joint Secretary (Home) noted that the state cabinet discussed the re-imposition of AFSPA during a meeting on November 15 and decided to suggest to the central government to reconsider and withdraw the declaration.

The letter emphasized the urgency of the request, stating, “It is accordingly requested to review and withdraw the notification dated 14-11-2024 in the public interest.” On November 14, the Ministry of Home Affairs had re-imposed AFSPA in the areas falling under the Sekmai, Lamsang, Lamlai, Moirang, Leimakhong, and Jiribam police stations in Manipur.

In a related development, a violent mob attacked the residences of three ministers and six members of the legislative assembly in Manipur, igniting several properties amid rising tensions in the state. Additionally, in Jiribam town, miscreants set fire to at least two churches and three houses.

In response to the escalating violence, Manipur authorities have enforced an indefinite curfew in five districts and suspended internet services in seven districts for two days.