Home Ministry's Big Decision: AFSPA to Remain in Force for 6 More Months in 3 Northeastern States
New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): The central government has extended the period of Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA) in two important northeastern states, Manipur and Nagaland, for the next six months. Along with this, this decision has also been implemented in some areas of Arunachal Pradesh in view of the current security situation. According to the notification issued by the Home Ministry, the central government has taken this decision after reviewing the law and order situation in the state of Manipur.
The notification said that using the powers conferred under Section 3 of the Armed Forces Special Powers Act, 1958, the whole of Manipur, except the areas falling under the jurisdiction of 13 police stations in 5 districts of the state of Manipur, is declared as a 'disturbed area' for the next six months from 1st April 2025. Additionally, the period of AFSPA has also been extended for six months in three districts of Arunachal Pradesh - Tirap, Changlang and Longding - and three police station areas of the state.
It is worth noting that AFSPA has been in force in Manipur, Nagaland and Arunachal Pradesh since 1958, 1958 and 1972 respectively. The main reason for this is considered to be the activities of separatist and militant groups active in these areas, who have been continuously involved in violent conflict against the sovereignty of India. Naga rebellion in Nagaland has been going on since the 1950s, after which AFSPA was implemented in 1958. In Manipur too, this act was implemented in 1958 due to violent agitations started by various tribal groups and separatist organizations. In Arunachal Pradesh, AFSPA was implemented in 1972 after the increase in militant activities in the areas bordering China and Myanmar. This law gives certain special powers to the security forces, including arrest without warrant and permission to open fire under certain specific circumstances. This decision of the central government is being considered an important step towards further strengthening the security system in these areas.
