Village Authority's bid to restrict security forces draws sharp rebuke
Source: The Sangai Express

Kangpokpi, April 13 2026: The Ihang-Bungpi Working Committee (IBWC), Sadar Hills Kangpokpi District, on Monday launched a scathing attack on a "Security Restriction Notice" issued by the Roudei (TM Kasom) Village Authority in Ukhrul district.

The committee termed the directive "unlawful, untenable and a direct challenge to constitutional authority" .

The controversy stems from an April 12 directive that allegedly seeks to restrict the entry and functioning of Indian security forces within the village jurisdiction without prior local permission.

The IBWC asserted that the regulation and deployment of security forces fall strictly under the domain of the State and Union Governments and "cannot be dictated by local bodies".

The committee stated the notice "stands in direct contravention of established legal and constitutional provisions", adding that any attempt by a village authority to control lawful security operations has "no legal standing whatsoever" .

Citing the Manipur (Village Authorities in Hill Areas) Act, 1956, the IBWC underscored that village authorities possess only limited administrative and customary roles, such as local dispute resolution and management of village resources, and "do not possess jurisdiction over matters of national security, armed forces deployment, or policing beyond minor local issues".

The committee warned that such directives in a conflict-sensitive region could have "serious ramifications" on law and order, potentially undermining efforts to stabilise the situation and ensure civilian safety.

The IBWC issued a set of urgent demands to the authorities, including the immediate declaration of the notice as "null and void", ensuring unobstructed functioning of security forces, initiating action against those responsible for the directive, and strengthening security arrangements in sensitive areas.

The committee further urged both the Government of India and the Manipur Government to intervene without delay.

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