Friday's decree marks the latest extension of AFSPA in Manipur, the entire state now labelled a 'disturbed area' from October 1, 2026, unless withdrawn earlier. The move excludes the jurisdictions of 13 police stations across five districts – Imphal, Imphal East, Thoubal, Bishnupur, and Kakching – that will not fall under the declaration.
AFSPA, first imposed in 1958, has been periodically extended in Manipur since 1990, with the last extension in 2024. The act grants the central government sweeping powers over arrest, search, and use of force in declared areas, a provision that critics say erodes civil liberties.
Under the new order, civilians in the excluded police stations retain normal movement and access to services, while residents in the rest of the state may face restrictions on assembly and increased military presence. The government says the decision follows a 'further review of the law and order situation' in the state.
Local opposition leaders have called the declaration a political stunt, arguing it will deepen mistrust and disrupt daily life. A resident of Imphal West, Arjun Singh, said his family will have to seek permits to travel to work.
The Home Ministry also extended AFSPA to nine districts in Nagaland and three in Arunachal Pradesh, covering 21 police stations in Nagaland's Kohima, Mokokchung, Longleng, Wokha and Zunheboto districts, and 3 police stations in Namsai district of Arunachal.
The order expires on March 31, 2027, after a six‑month period, at which point the Ministry will reassess the security situation and decide whether to lift the disturbed status.