IMPHAL, April 23: The Manipur government has expanded enforcement authority under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967, granting sweeping powers to a broader section of police personnel to carry out arrests, searches and seizures across the state with immediate effect.
A notification issued by the Home Department on April 22, 2026, designated the Administrative Secretary (Home) as the “Designated Authority” under Section 43A of the Act, enabling action against offences linked to unlawful and anti-national activities.
The order significantly widened the scope of enforcement by authorising all police officers not below the rank of Head Constable or Havildar, in both civil and armed wings, to exercise these powers on behalf of the designated authority.
Under the directive, empowered officials can initiate arrests or conduct searches if they have “reason to believe” that an offence has been committed or is likely to be committed under the Act. This includes situations involving suspected possession of evidence or property connected to unlawful activities.
The notification also permits searches of buildings, vehicles and other premises at any time, including during night hours, and allows seizure of documents or assets deemed relevant to ongoing investigations.
Authorities said the measure is intended to strengthen implementation of the law and enhance operational response on the ground. The order will remain in force until further notice.
The directive has been circulated to key administrative and law enforcement offices, including the Governor’s Secretariat, Chief Secretary, Director General of Police and district-level authorities, signalling a significant escalation in enforcement under anti-terror provisions amid prevailing security concerns in the state.
