The Assam government has decided to extend the “Disturbed Area” status of four districts for six months under the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA), 1958, highlighting ongoing security concerns. The districts affected by this extension are Tinsukia, Dibrugarh, Charaideo, and Sivasagar, which have been identified as areas requiring special attention due to the continuous presence of militant organizations.
The decision to extend the AFSPA status came after the Assam Police submitted a proposal to the Home Ministry, emphasizing the need for continued security measures in these districts. While acknowledging an overall improvement in the state’s law and order situation, the Assam Police highlighted the persistent activity of one militant group in the aforementioned districts.
The Home Ministry, after careful consideration of the proposal, approved the extension of AFSPA in the four districts, with the new status taking effect from April 1. This move underscores the government’s commitment to addressing security challenges and maintaining peace and stability in sensitive areas where militant activities persist.
The extension of the “Disturbed Area” status under AFSPA grants security forces additional powers to maintain law and order, including the authority to arrest without a warrant and conduct searches in these designated areas. This decision reflects the ongoing efforts to safeguard the welfare and security of residents while combating threats posed by militant organizations in Assam.
Sources By Agencies