AFSPA extended in Arunachal, Nagaland

3 Arunachal, 8 Nagaland districts declared 'disturbed' for 6 months

The Union home ministry has extended the purview of the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act, under which an area is declared as "disturbed" for the convenience of security forces, to three districts of Arunachal Pradesh, eight districts of Nagaland for six additional months. The decision was taken after a review of the law and order situation in the two north-east states.

The AFSPA gives armed forces personnel, operating in disturbed areas, sweeping powers to search, arrest and to open fire if they deem it necessary for "the maintenance of public order". An area or district is notified as a disturbed area under the AFSPA to facilitate the operations of the armed forces.

In September 26, 2023, the Union home ministry (MHA) declared Tirap, Changlang and Longding districts in