The government of Manipur has expanded police powers under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967, allowing more officers to conduct arrests, searches, and seizures across the state. A Home Department notification issued on April 22, 2026, authorises personnel from the rank of Head Constable and above to act against unlawful activities. The move aims to strengthen law enforcement and improve response to security threats. The order will remain in effect until further notice.
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Key Facts
- Location: Manipur
- Law Invoked: Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967
- Notification Date: April 22, 2026
- Authority Appointed: Administrative Secretary (Home) as Designated Authority
- Who Gets Powers: Police officers of rank Head Constable/Havildar and above
- Powers Granted: Arrest, search, seizure without prior delay
- Scope: Buildings, vehicles, and premises (including night operations)
- Validity: Until further orders
Detailed News Report
The Manipur government has significantly expanded the operational powers of its police force under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967 (UAPA).
According to a notification issued by the Home Department on April 22, 2026, the Administrative Secretary (Home) has been designated as the “Designated Authority” under Section 43A of the Act. This provision allows authorised officials to act swiftly against offences linked to unlawful and anti-national activities.
In a major step, the government has extended enforcement authority to all police personnel not below the rank of Head Constable or Havildar. This includes both civil police and armed police units, thereby widening the pool of officers empowered to take action.
Officials granted these powers can conduct arrests or carry out searches if they have “reason to believe” that an offence under the Act has been committed or may occur. This includes situations involving suspected possession of documents, evidence, or property linked to unlawful activities.
The directive further allows police to search buildings, vehicles, and other premises at any time, including during night hours. It also authorises the seizure of materials or assets considered relevant to ongoing investigations.
Authorities stated that the decision is intended to strengthen the implementation of the law and enhance operational efficiency on the ground. By enabling more officers to act without procedural delays, the government aims to improve response time in critical situations.
The order has been circulated to key offices, including the Governor’s Secretariat, Chief Secretary, Director General of Police, and district-level administrations, ensuring coordinated enforcement across the state.
Officials confirmed that the notification will remain in force until further notice, indicating a long-term approach to strengthening internal security measures.
Q&A Section
Q1: What decision has the Manipur government taken?
The government has expanded police powers under the UAPA, allowing more officers to conduct arrests and searches.
Q2: Which law is involved?
The Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967.
Q3: Who can now exercise these powers?
Police personnel of the rank of Head Constable or Havildar and above.
Q4: What kind of actions are permitted?
Arrests, searches, and seizures of suspected materials, including night-time operations.
Q5: When did the order come into effect?
The notification was issued on April 22, 2026, and is effective immediately.
Location Context
Manipur, located in Northeast India, shares an international border with Myanmar and has strategic importance in regional security. Strengthening law enforcement powers is often seen as critical in maintaining stability in the region.
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