An order alleged to be from Home department in connection with the extension of “Disturbed Area” status has left many confused in the wake of the poll-related commotion looming over the state.
The order allegedly signed by H Gyaan Prakash, special secretary (Home), stated that the “Disturbed Area” has been extended in the state for another year.
“Whereas the Governor of Manipur is of the opinion that due to violent activities of various extremist/insurgent groups, the entire state of Manipur in such a disturbed condition that the use Armed Forces in aid of civil power is necessary.
"And, whereas the Governor of Manipur is of the opinion that the areas within the state of Manipur be declared as a “Disturbed Area” under the provisions of Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act 1985 as amended from time to time.
"Now, therefore, in exercise of the powers conferred by section 3 of the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act 1985 (Act No.28 of 1958) as amended from time to time, the Governor of Manipur hereby accords ex-post facto approval to declare the entire state of Manipur excluding the Imphal Municipal Area as “Disturbed Area” for a period of one year with retrospective effect from December 1, 2021," the order stated.
The Imphal Free Press contacted officials in the Home department, including Gyaan Prakash, for confirmation, but could not be reached till the time of filing this report.
