Ministry of Home Affairs Extends AFSPA in Northeastern States

The Ministry of Home Affairs has extended the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act, 1958 in specific regions of Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, and Nagaland for another six months to maintain internal security amidst ongoing ethnic violence and insurgent activities. This move is significant for UPSC aspirants, particularly for General Studies Paper 3, focusing on internal security. Last Updated: 28-09-2026

Key Facts About AFSPA, 1958

• The Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act, 1958 empowers the military to address insurgencies in "disturbed areas."
• Originally enacted as the Armed Forces (Assam and Manipur) Special Powers Act to counter the Naga uprising.
• Empowers forces to use force, arrest without a warrant, and search premises without a warrant.
• Requires Central Government sanction for prosecution of armed forces personnel.
• Section 3 allows the declaration of "disturbed areas" by the Central Government or State Governor.
• AFSPA has been completely revoked in Tripura and Meghalaya since 2022.
• The Justice B.P. Jeevan Reddy Committee (2005) recommended its repeal, suggesting integration into the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act.
• The Supreme Court upheld its constitutional validity but emphasized periodic review of "disturbed area" declarations.

Security and Strategic Context

The extension of AFSPA is crucial for maintaining internal security in the Northeast, a region plagued by ethnic violence and insurgent threats. This decision aligns with India's strategic goal of stabilizing border areas and ensuring peace, which is essential for economic growth and regional development. The gradual rollback of AFSPA since 2022, except in volatile regions, reflects a balanced approach to security and human rights.

UPSC Relevance

• GS Paper 3: Internal Security Challenges - AFSPA's role in maintaining law and order.
• Prelims: Questions on the provisions of AFSPA, its historical context, and recent extensions.
• Mains: Analytical themes on the balance between security and human rights, and the impact of AFSPA on civil liberties.
• Essay Paper: Topics on security laws and human rights in conflict zones.

FAQ Section

• What is AFSPA? The Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act, 1958, is a law granting special powers to the military in "disturbed areas" to maintain public order.
• Why is AFSPA important? AFSPA is crucial for empowering the armed forces to tackle insurgencies and maintain internal security in regions with significant unrest.
• What are the key features of AFSPA? Key features include the use of force, arrest without a warrant, search without a warrant, and legal protections for armed forces personnel.