Manipur Empowers Police with Expanded Authority Under UAPA
The government of Manipur has significantly expanded the powers of police personnel under the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act 1967 (UAPA), aiming to strengthen enforcement amid ongoing security concerns in the state.
Key Provisions of the Order
As per a Home Department notification issued on April 22:
- The Administrative Secretary (Home) has been designated as the “Designated Authority”under Section 43A of the Act
- A broader group of officers—all personnel not below the rank of Head Constable or Havildar in both civil and armed police—are now authorised to exercise powers under UAPA
- These powers are to be exercised on behalf of the Designated Authority
Expanded Police Powers
Under the new directive, authorised personnel can:
- Carry out arrests if there is “reason to believe” an offence has been or may be committed
- Conduct searches of buildings, vehicles, and premises, including at night
- Seize documents, materials, or assets suspected to be linked to unlawful or anti-national activities
The provision of acting on “reason to believe” gives officers greater operational flexibility, particularly in time-sensitive situations.
Scope and Implementation
- The order applies across the entire state
- It comes into immediate effect and will remain in force until further notice
- The notification has been circulated to key authorities, including the Governor’s Secretariat, Chief Secretary, and the Director General of Police
Purpose of the Move
Officials state that the decision is intended to:
- Strengthen law enforcement response
- Improve the ability of agencies to act quickly against unlawful and anti-national activities
- Enhance coordination among security forces in a sensitive and volatile environment
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The move represents a notable tightening of enforcement under anti-terror laws, potentially enabling quicker action on the ground, while also raising broader discussions about implementation and oversight in maintaining law and order.
