In a significant development, the Centre on Thursday reduced areas in Manipur, Nagaland and Assam where the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA) was in force.
AFSPA gives the security forces significant powers to arrest, shoot to kill and occupy civilian property in conduct of counter-insurgency missions. It also gives immunity from prosecution in certain cases.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah announced the decision. Shah tweeted “In a significant step, GoI under the decisive leadership of PM Shri @NarendraModi Ji has decided to reduce disturbed areas under Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA) in the states of Nagaland, Assam and Manipur after decades.”
Shah attributed the decision to the “improved security situation and fast-tracked development due to the consistent efforts and several agreements to end insurgency and bring lasting peace in North East by PM @narendramodi government”.
Shah declared the northeast “which was neglected for decades is now witnessing a new era of peace, prosperity and unprecedented development”.
Demands for removal of AFSPA have echoed for decades and came to centre stage again in December after 13 civilians were shot dead by the Indian Army in Nagaland's Mon district in a case of mistaken identity.
Thursday's announcement is expected to considerably reduce areas under AFSPA with effect from April 1. However, the law has not been completely removed.
Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh had talked of possible action to repeal or relax AFSPA implementation in the run-up to the recent assembly elections. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma had also indicated earlier this year there would be “positive news” on AFSPA in 2022.
