MANIPUR: The Ministry of Home Affairs has extended the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA) in six police stations across five districts of Manipur, a move set to remain in place until March 31, 2025, unless withdrawn earlier. This action is in response to the ongoing ethnic violence that has led to significant unrest in the region.

Escalating Ethnic Conflict
AFSPA has been reimposed in six specific police stations: Sekmai and Lamsang in Imphal West, Lamlai in Imphal East, Jiribam in Jiribam, Leimakhong in Kangpokpi, and Moirang in Bishnupur. This extension follows the broader imposition of AFSPA across the entire state on October 1, 2023, with the exception of 19 police stations. These areas were deemed not to require military intervention at that time.

AFSPA grants security forces sweeping powers, including the ability to arrest individuals without a warrant, conduct searches, and use force to quell disturbances. While the move aims to address escalating violence, it has been met with mixed reactions, as certain areas, particularly Meitei-dominated regions, were excluded from its initial implementation.

The Toll of the Violence
The violence, which began in May 2023, has led to the deaths of over 200 people and displaced thousands. The conflict between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities continues to ravage the region, with incidents of gunfights, abductions, and attacks on civilians becoming increasingly common. One of the most recent incidents saw 11 suspected militants killed in a gunfight in Jiribam, while armed groups abducted six civilians, including women and children, in a separate attack.

The unrest has spread beyond Imphal Valley into regions that were previously unaffected, such as the ethnically diverse district of Jiribam. The violence was triggered by the discovery of a farmer’s mutilated body in June, sparking further tensions.

National Security Concerns
The reimposition of AFSPA comes at a time when there are growing concerns over national security, especially with insurgent groups operating from both within Manipur and across the Myanmar border. These groups are suspected of receiving support and supplies from Myanmar-based militias. The recent increase in arms smuggling and the active recruitment of local fighters has heightened fears that the violence could escalate further, destabilizing the region.

Security forces have been working to contain the situation, but challenges persist as ethnic groups continue to clash, and militias gain strength. With the state’s security infrastructure stretched thin, the central government has been closely monitoring the situation, hoping to regain control of the law and order situation.

The Road to Peace
Despite the military presence, achieving lasting peace in Manipur remains uncertain. Political efforts to resolve the issues, particularly the Kuki-Zo community’s demands, have been delayed due to the ongoing violence. With elections on the horizon, the state’s political leadership faces a delicate balancing act between addressing security concerns and maintaining public support.

The future of Manipur remains uncertain, with the specter of continued violence and instability hanging over the region. The reimposition of AFSPA is a critical step in the government’s attempt to restore order, but only time will tell if it will lead to a long-term resolution