People take part in a protest march against the recent violence in Manipur and reimposition of AFSPA in parts of the state, in Imphal, Tuesday, Dec. 10, 2024.
Credit: PTI Photo
Guwahati: Thousands took to the streets of Manipur capital Imphal on Wednesday demanding repeal of the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA) 1958 and steps for restoration of peace in the conflict-torn state.
Holding banners and placards, protesters, mostly women, said that AFSPA is against human rights "as it caused excesses by security forces" as the act gives immunity to the army. "The AFSPA is a draconian act and if we respect human rights, the act must be repealed. The use of a draconian act in the name of enforcement of law and order is unacceptable as such act have violated basic human rights in Manipur," the protesters said in a statement.
The protest coincided with the International Human Rights Day on Wednesday. It was organised by All Manipur United Club Organisation, Poirei Leimarol Apunba Meira Paibi, All Manipur Women's Voluntary Association, Committee on Human Rights and Manipur Students' Federation.
The protest comes weeks after the Centre reimposed the AFSPA in areas under six police stations last month. The AFSPA was reimposed following violent protests in the Meitei-dominated Imphal Valley after three Meitei women and three children were killed allegedly by Kuki insurgents. The protesters had even set fire and vandalised houses of at least 13 MLAs and ministers.
The BJP-led government in the state, however, had to write to the Centre seeking withdrawal of the AFSPA after several organisations representing the Meitei community threatened to step up protests. The AFSPA is also in force in the hill districts where Kukis and the Nagas are dominant. The demand for repeal of the AFSPA has intensified amid the conflict involving the Meiteis and Kukis that has resulted in deaths of 258 persons and displacements of over 60,000 others, since May last year.
The Meitei protesters also demanded action against the Kuki insurgents involved in attacks on the Meiteis.