Manipur MP demands repeal of AFSPA

Imphal, Aug 9: Dr Th Meinya, MP, has demanded repeal of the controversial Armed Forces Special Powers Act, 1958.

The MP, representing Inner Manipur Parliamentary constituency, said, ''Unfortunately, certain laws which are area-specific have been enforced in North Eastern Region and Jammu and Kashmir.

Area-specific in the sense, we have Armed forces Special Power Act, 1958 being applied there. I fully agree with the fact that the state government had declared some areas as disturbed ones. Only after that, this act comes into the picture. But even then the Centre realising the difficulties faced by these people in that area, has ordered a Review committee headed by Justice Reddy.'' The Manipur Information Centre said the MP was participating at the discussion and voting on Supplementary Demands for Grants (General), 2006-07,when he raised the matter at the Lok Sabha yesterday.

The parliamentarian pointed out , ''The Reddy Committee Report had already come to the Government. All the people in that part of the country, particularly North Eastern India as well as Jammu and Kashmir, are waiting for the repeal of this Act. But so far it has not happened. If it is removed it will help a lot in improving the condition of the people there.'' Dr. T. Meinya said while implementing many of the centrally sponsored schemes was difficult in the north eastern states, as these states had certain problems of their own.

He stressed the need for development in the North East States. He demanded more funds for Manipur. ''Manipur has a very good infrastructure for sports which should be maintained properly , he said. The State also requires money for development of its roads,he added.

He said since the region had become peaceful, thrust should now be given on the socio-economic development in the region.

UNI