Imphal: During the seventh day of the 12th Manipur Legislative Assembly (6th Session), MLA Phungyar A/C Leishiyo Keishing raised a Calling Attention Motion concerning the long-standing demand for the removal of the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA), 1958 from the hill areas of Manipur. Keishing described AFSPA as a draconian and inhumane law, arguing that it violates the Fundamental Rights of Indian citizens.
In response, Chief Minister N. Biren Singh acknowledged that several agencies had pushed for the imposition of AFSPA in the valley areas following the May 3, 2023 incident. However, he emphasized that enforcing AFSPA does not guarantee an ideal law and order situation. He also referred to the recent enactment of three new criminal laws that focus on dignity and humanity. Addressing MLA Keishing’s appeal, the Chief Minister assured that he would do his utmost to approach and convince the Centre to remove AFSPA from the hill districts of the state.
In a related discussion, responding to a Calling Attention Motion raised by MLA Khundrakpam A/C, Th. Lokeshwar Singh, on the government’s failure to ensure conflict-free zones around educational institutions, Education Minister Th. Basanta Kumar Singh called for a holistic view of the state’s overall situation.
He acknowledged cases of unreasonable demands by teachers and assured the House that the State Government is committed to improving law and order for the benefit of both students and teachers. He invited suggestions from all stakeholders to restore normalcy in the academic environment and stated that he would request the Security Advisor to consider patrolling educational institutions as a short-term measure. For long-term solutions, he mentioned that the Education and Home Departments would develop policies to ensure educational spaces remain conflict-free.
During Zero Hour, MLA Keishamthong A/C Nishikanta Sapam condemned recent acts by unknown miscreants on the highway and urged authorities to ensure that the army deployed on highways performs their duties meticulously. He praised the Naga Union Traders for allowing the safe passage of goods trucks but warned that frequent crimes would have severe consequences for the entire state. He called on all stakeholders to refrain from engaging in such petty crimes.
Regarding the Suspension of Operation (SoO) agreement, Chief Minister N. Biren Singh clarified that it is a tripartite matter, and the state government does not have the authority to unilaterally abrogate the policy. He noted that the Centre has neither withdrawn nor extended SoO, indicating that the state’s grievances and demands are being considered.
In response to a question from MLA Th. Lokeshwar Singh about alternative arrangements for poppy cultivators, the Chief Minister highlighted various schemes and policies available to support the transition to horticultural and agricultural plantations, such as turmeric, ginger, and lemon, including access to credit loans and seeds.
