Manipur CM N Biren says Delhi agencies trying to reimpose Afspa in valley | India News – Times of India

GUWAHATI: Manipur CM N Biren Singh Thursday informed the legislative assembly that various central agencies were pushing for reimposing Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act, 1958, in the valley districts of the state since violence broke out in May 2023.
Responding to a call attention motion on “the long-standing demand” for removal of Afspa from Manipur moved by Naga People’s Front’s Leishiyo Keishing, the CM said agencies were pressing for Afspa’s reimposition “due to the evolving situation in valley districts”.
“We were at a point of demanding Afspa’s removal from the hill districts, but I was questioned whether the situation in valley could be managed,” Biren said, adding, “There is significant pressure for reimposition of Afspa in the valley.”
The CM said he explained to the agencies that the unrest was a result of emotional responses to the violence and assured that he would address the situation gradually. On the difficulties brought about by Afspa, Biren stressed the need for a compassionate relook at its imposition. He also highlighted his long-standing resistance to Afspa, both in his capacity as a scribe and as a public figure.