IMPHAL, December 7: “The Armed Forces Special Powers Act, 1958 cannot be fully lifted from the entire State” informed Chief Minister O Ibobi Singh during the observation of the 17th Death Anniversary of M Ibotombi (former minister) today at the Heirok memorial complex of the former minister.
The observation was made under the theme, “Love, unity and development” and organized by the Moirangthem Ibotombi Memorial Trust.
Ibobi Singh who attended the observation as the chief guest further stated that the act was lifted from seven segments of the Imphal Municipal council since 2004 and it has remain so till date, while the act has remained at the other parts of the state.
Citing the recent spur in violent activities in the state including the recent bomb blast at Sangai festival and other parts of Imphal, the Chief Minister informed that the AFSPA cannot be lifted fully from the state.
While acknowledging the killing of innocent persons by both the state and central security forces under the impunity of the act, the CM further stated that the SPF government strongly condemned such acts.
He further stated that the state government will work to bring peace and development in the state.
Further during the observation, the Chief Minister further deliberated on the life of M Ibotombi.
MLA M Okendro and other ministers of the state were also present during the observation.