In a significant decision, The Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA), which allows areas to be declared as “disturbed” for the convenience of security forces, has been extended for an additional six months in several districts of Nagaland and Arunachal Pradesh. This decision follows a review of the law and order situation in the two northeastern states.
Overview of AFSPA
Under the AFSPA, a district is notified as a disturbed area to facilitate operations by the armed forces. This legislation grants sweeping powers to the armed forces operating in these regions, allowing them to search, arrest, and use lethal force if deemed necessary for the “maintenance of public order.”
Recent Government Notification
In a notification released by the Union Home Ministry, it was stated that the central government, exercising its powers under Section 3 of the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act, 1958, has declared eight districts and 21 police station areas in five other districts of Nagaland as ‘disturbed areas’ for a period of six months, effective from April 1, 2024.
Districts Affected in Nagaland
The districts in Nagaland where the AFSPA has been reimposed include:
- Dimapur
- Niuland
- Chumoukedima
- Mon
- Kiphire
- Noklak
- Phek
- Peren
Additionally, areas under the jurisdiction of various police stations in Kohima, Mokokchung, Longleng, Wokha, and Zunheboto districts have also been declared ‘disturbed.’
Expansion of AFSPA in Arunachal Pradesh
A review of the law and order situation in Arunachal Pradesh has also led to the declaration of Tirap, Changlang, and Longding districts, along with specific police station areas in Namsai district, as ‘disturbed areas.’ This extension will be in effect for six months from October 1, 2024, unless revoked earlier.
Ongoing Discussions About AFSPA
Union Home Minister Amit Shah has previously indicated that AFSPA has been lifted in 70% of the northeastern states, although it remains enforced in Jammu and Kashmir. There have been persistent calls from various organizations and individuals in Jammu and Kashmir and northeastern states for the repeal of this act.
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