Armed Forces Special Powers Act Extended To Entire Manipur, Except 13 Police Station Areas

The Union Home Ministry on Sunday extended the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA) in Manipur for six months, covering the entire state except for the jurisdictions of 13 police stations. The decision was taken in view of the prevailing law and order situation.

The development comes as Manipur remains under President’s Rule since February 13, following the resignation of Chief Minister N Biren Singh amid prolonged ethnic violence. The BJP-led government, in power since 2017, collapsed after nearly 21 months of unrest that has claimed over 250 lives since May 2023.

A notification issued by the ministry stated, "Whereas the central government after review of the law and order situation in the state of Manipur, in exercise of the powers conferred by Section 3 of the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act, 1958 (28 of 1958) declares the entire state of Manipur, excluding the areas falling under the jurisdiction of the following 13 (thirteen) police stations of 5 districts, as 'disturbed area' for a period of six months with effect from 01.04.2025, unless withdrawn earlier."