Thousands of people gathered at THAU Ground in Imphal today to participate in a mass protest against the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA), marking International Human Rights Day with a call for justice and the repeal of the contentious law.
The demonstration was jointly organized by prominent civil society organizations (CSOs) including the All Manipur United Clubs’ Organisation (AMUCO), Poirei Leimarol Meira Paibi Apunba Manipur (POIREI LEIMAROL), Manipuri Students’ Federation (MSF), Centre for Human Rights (COHR), and All Manipur Women Voluntary Association (AMAWOVA).
Participants, including students and individuals from diverse communities, voiced their anger and frustration over what they termed a “draconian act” that violates fundamental human rights. Protesters carried placards and banners demanding the complete withdrawal of AFSPA from Manipur and other northeastern states, accusing the act of fostering impunity and perpetuating human rights abuses in the region. The gathering reverberated with slogans such as “Repeal AFSPA,” “Self-determination is our right,” “Don’t obliterate Manipur,” and “Stop killing innocent people by Kuki terrorists.”
In November, the Centre reimposed the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act in six police station areas of Manipur, including violence-hit Jiribam. The Union Home Ministry cited the continuous volatile situation due to ongoing ethnic violence as the reason for the decision.
The police station areas where AFSPA has been reimposed are Sekmai and Lamsang in Imphal West district, Lamlai in Imphal East district, Jiribam in Jiribam district, Leimakhong in Kangpokpi, and Moirang in Bishnupur.
This fresh order followed the Manipur government’s imposition of AFSPA in the entire state on October 1, excluding 19 police station areas, including the six where it has now been reimposed.
The AFSPA, which grants sweeping powers to security forces in “disturbed areas,” has long been a source of contention in Manipur and other parts of the Northeast. Protests against the act have intensified in recent years, with civil society groups, activists, and the public calling for its revocation.
As the protest gained momentum, speakers at the event reiterated the demand for a peaceful and rights-respecting approach to governance in the state. The gathering underscored the enduring commitment of Manipur’s people to fight for justice and dignity in the face of long-standing challenges.