Assam Government Extends Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act in Four Districts for Six Months
Image Source: Jammu Links News
The Assam government has recently announced the extension of the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA) in four districts of the country, citing persisting safety-demanding situations. The decision, effective for 6 months from April 1, comes amidst efforts to deal with ongoing militant activities notwithstanding overall enhancements in the regulation and order scenario.
The districts stricken by the extension encompass Tinsukia, Dibrugarh, Charaideo, and Sivasagar. According to reviews from the Assam Police, while there has been excellent progress in maintaining peace and balance throughout the kingdom, the presence of one active militant agency in these specific districts necessitated the continuation of AFSPA provisions.
The AFSPA, a debatable regulation dating back to 1958, offers extensive powers to safety forces, including the authority to conduct operations and make arrests without earlier warrants. While proponents argue that such measures are vital for preventing insurgency and maintaining public safety, critics often highlight issues regarding human rights abuses and the erosion of civil liberties.
The selection to extend AFSPA in Assam reflects the complicated safety panorama prevailing in the region. Despite efforts to foster peace and reconciliation, sporadic incidents of violence keep posing challenges for stability and improvement. The state government’s move to maintain the ‘disturbed area’ status underscores the ongoing need for robust safety measures to guard against potential threats.
It is noteworthy that the Assam government’s decision to extend AFSPA follows an extensive assessment and consultation process, including submissions from the state’s domestic and political departments to the Union Ministry of Home Affairs. After careful consideration, the Ministry opted to uphold the ‘status quo’ regarding the ‘disturbed area’ designation, particularly concerning the extension of the Act in the specific districts until September 30, 2024.
This extension marks a continuation of the state’s approach to address security challenges through a legislative approach. Previously, the AFSPA was extended in October 2023 for a six-month period, with certain districts witnessing the withdrawal of the Act as part of efforts to recalibrate security measures based on evolving dynamics.
The history of AFSPA in Assam traces back to November 1990 when the state was declared a ‘disturbed area,’ necessitating the imposition of the Act to empower safety forces in their efforts to maintain order and combat insurgency. Over the years, the periodic extension of AFSPA has become a routine, reflecting the persistent security concerns prevailing in the area.
As Assam navigates the complexities of protective governance, the extension of AFSPA serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between safety imperatives and the protection of civil liberties. Moving ahead, it remains imperative for the government to ensure accountability and transparency in security operations while actively carrying out efforts to address underlying grievances and promote lasting peace and stability in the region.
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