Following an upsurge of photographs of the students' bodies on social media, a large number of students came to the streets...
Digital Desk: Due to continuous law and order issues, the Manipur administration declared the whole state a 'disturbed region' under the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA) on Wednesday for a six-month term. This designation, however, will not apply to regions under the jurisdiction of 19 police stations, including the capital, Imphal.
The state government explained its decision in an official announcement, citing the need for the Armed Forces to support civil administration throughout the state due to the violent operations of numerous extremist and insurgent groups.
The developments occurred in the aftermath of fresh protests sparked by the kidnapping and gruesome assassination of two Metei students by suspected armed people.
After the spread of photographs of the students' bodies on social media, a large number of students came to the streets and attempted to march towards the residence of Chief Minister N Biren Singh.
This uprising came just days after the government removed a nearly five-month ban on mobile internet services.
The announcement further stated that a detailed assessment of the situation on the ground is convenient at this time because the security forces are now focused with maintaining the state's law and order.
As a result, the administration believes that revisiting the 'disturbed region' status before reaching a decision on such a sensitive issue is not suitable.
It has also recognised the possibility of public opposition and criticism following the designation of the 'disturbed area' status 'if adequate caution is not taken,' and has announced the continuation of the status quo in the declared locations.
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