AFSPA Extended in Nagaland and Arunachal Pradesh for Six More Months
The Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA), which helps in maintaining security by declaring areas as ‘disturbed’, has been extended for another six months in eight districts of Nagaland and three districts of Arunachal Pradesh. This decision was made after reviewing the law and order situation in these northeastern states.
Details of the Extension
The Union Home Ministry announced that the central government, using its powers under Section 3 of the AFSPA, 1958, has declared eight districts and 21 police stations in five other districts of Nagaland as ‘disturbed areas’ starting from October 1, 2024. The districts in Nagaland affected by this extension include:
- Dimapur
- Niuland
- Chumoukedima
- Mon
- Kiphire
- Noklak
- Phek
- Peren
Additionally, several police stations in Kohima, Mokokchung, Longleng, Wokha, and Zunheboto districts are also declared ‘disturbed’.
Arunachal Pradesh
In Arunachal Pradesh, the districts of Tirap, Changlang, and Longding, along with areas under Namsai, Mahadevpur, and Chowkham police stations in Namsai district, are also declared ‘disturbed’ for six months starting from October 1, 2024.
Statements from Officials
Union Home Minister Amit Shah mentioned that AFSPA has been removed from 70% of the northeastern states but is still in effect in Jammu and Kashmir. He also stated that the central government is considering revoking AFSPA in Jammu and Kashmir.
What is AFSPA?
The AFSPA gives security forces special powers, such as arresting a person without a warrant and searching premises without a warrant, to maintain law and order in ‘disturbed areas’.
Doubts Revealed
AFSPA -: AFSPA stands for the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act. It is a law that gives special powers to the military to maintain order in areas where there is trouble or conflict.
Nagaland -: Nagaland is a state in the northeastern part of India. It is known for its rich culture and beautiful landscapes.
Arunachal Pradesh -: Arunachal Pradesh is another state in the northeastern part of India. It is famous for its natural beauty and diverse tribes.
Union Home Minister -: The Union Home Minister is a high-ranking official in the Indian government responsible for internal security and law and order. Currently, Amit Shah holds this position.
Amit Shah -: Amit Shah is an Indian politician and the current Union Home Minister of India. He is a senior leader in the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).
Jammu and Kashmir -: Jammu and Kashmir is a region in northern India. It has been a place of conflict and is known for its beautiful mountains and valleys.
Disturbed areas -: Disturbed areas are places where there is a lot of trouble or conflict, and special laws like AFSPA are needed to maintain order.
