Considering national security,repeal of AFSPA needs talks: BJP

GUWAHATI: The BJP today said repeal of the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act 1958 (AFSPA) from Jammu and Kashmir and Manipur should be done through proper dialogue and keeping in mind the national security.

"We all know that terrorist activities are going on in J&K. They come and kill people. The armed forces go to those places to protect the people. Same is the case in Manipur," BJP's deputy leader in Rajya Sabha Ravi Shankar Prasad told reporters here.

When asked about the BJP's stand regarding repeal of the AFSPA, he did not give a direct answer.

"For repealing the Act, there is a need to talk with the people. We have to consider it through dialogue keeping in mind the national security," Prasad said.

The Act has been enforced in Manipur for more than two decades, being extended annually. In November 2013, the AFSPA was extended for another year in insurgency-hit Manipur, barring seven Assembly constituencies within Imphal Municipal area.

Social activist Irom Chanu Sharmila has been on fast unto death for more than 13 years demanding repeal of the Act after killing of 10 civilians by Assam Rifles near Imphal airport on November 2, 2000.