Central government extends AFSPA deadline by six months in Arunachal Pradesh and Nagaland

Central Government Extends AFSPA Deadline in Arunachal Pradesh and Nagaland

Learn about the recent extension of the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA) in Nagaland and Arunachal Pradesh. Understand the implications and reasons behind this decision by the central government.

Introduction

In a significant development, the central government has extended the tenure of the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA) in the states of Nagaland and Arunachal Pradesh. This extension, effective from October 1, 2023, marks an important decision taken after a thorough review of the law and order situation in both these northeastern states. This article delves into the details of this decision, its implications, and the background of AFSPA in these regions.

Central government extends AFSPA deadline by six months in Arunachal Pradesh and Nagaland

Central Government's Decision

The central government's decision to extend AFSPA in Nagaland and Arunachal Pradesh underscores the importance it places on maintaining law and order in these states. The government has issued two separate notifications to this effect, highlighting the gravity of the situation and the need for continued security measures.

Extension in Nagaland

In Nagaland, AFSPA has been extended for the next six months, covering the entire eight districts of the state. Additionally, it will be in force in the areas of 21 police stations across five other districts. This comprehensive extension demonstrates the government's commitment to ensuring the safety and security of the region.

Extension in Arunachal Pradesh

The Home Ministry has also extended the AFSPA law for the next six months in specific districts of Arunachal Pradesh. This extension includes Tirap, Changlang, and Longding districts and will also be effective in areas under the jurisdiction of Namsai, Mahadevpur, and Choukham police stations in Namsai district. The decision reflects the government's strategy to address security concerns in a targeted manner.

Background: AFSPA in Northeast India

AFSPA, the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act, is a legal provision that empowers the armed forces and the Central Armed Police Forces deployed in "disturbed areas" with special powers to maintain law and order. These powers include the authority to kill any person violating the law, arrest and search premises without a warrant, and protect personnel from prosecution and legal consequences.

Nagaland has been under the purview of AFSPA since 1995, reflecting the persistent security challenges in the region. Both state and central governments have the authority to issue notifications regarding AFSPA. However, it's important to note that the Home Ministry issues "Disturbed Area" notifications from time to time to extend AFSPA only to Nagaland and Arunachal Pradesh. Notifications for Manipur and Assam are issued by the respective state governments.

AFSPA Repeals

It's worth mentioning that Tripura repealed the AFSPA Act in 2015, signifying an improvement in the law and order situation in the state. Similarly, Meghalaya remained under AFSPA for 27 years until it was finally repealed by the ministry on April 1, 2018.

Central Government's Responsibility

The extension of AFSPA underscores the central government's responsibility to ensure the safety and security of its citizens in regions facing security challenges. While the act grants significant powers to the armed forces, it's important to strike a balance between maintaining law and order and protecting the rights of civilians.

FAQs

Q: What is the AFSPA Act?

 The Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act empowers the armed forces and the Central Armed Police Forces deployed in "disturbed areas" with special powers to maintain law and order. These powers include the authority to kill any person violating the law, arrest and search premises without a warrant, and protect personnel from prosecution and legal consequences.

Q: Why was AFSPA extended in Nagaland and Arunachal Pradesh?

 AFSPA was extended in these states after a thorough review of the law and order situation, highlighting the government's commitment to ensuring the safety and security of the region.

Q: How long is the extension of AFSPA in Nagaland and Arunachal Pradesh?

 The extension of AFSPA in these states is for a period of six months, effective from October 1, 2023.

Q: Are there any conditions for extending AFSPA?

 AFSPA can be extended based on the assessment of the law and order situation in "disturbed areas." Both state and central governments have the authority to issue notifications regarding AFSPA.

Q: Which districts are covered by the AFSPA extension in Arunachal Pradesh?

 The AFSPA extension in Arunachal Pradesh covers Tirap, Changlang, and Longding districts, along with areas under the jurisdiction of Namsai, Mahadevpur, and Choukham police stations in Namsai district.

Q: Has AFSPA been repealed in any other states?

 Yes, Tripura repealed the AFSPA Act in 2015, and Meghalaya remained under AFSPA for 27 years until it was repealed by the ministry on April 1, 2018.

Conclusion

The extension of AFSPA in Nagaland and Arunachal Pradesh reflects the central government's commitment to maintaining law and order in regions facing security challenges. While this act grants special powers to security forces, it's crucial to balance security measures with protecting the rights of civilians. The government's decision highlights the ongoing efforts to ensure the safety and security of its citizens in these states.

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