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The most crucial declaration concerns Manipur, where the entire state, which has been grappling with intense ethnic violence since May 2023, has been declared a ‘disturbed area’
The Centre’s decision underscores the assessment that while the security situation remains sensitive, gradual steps toward revocation, like the exclusion of specific police station areas, are being taken in select parts of the Northeast. Representational pic/PTI
The Union Home Ministry has announced a six-month extension of the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA) in parts of the Northeast, citing the need to maintain law and order amid prevailing security concerns. The extension, effective from October 1, affects specific regions of Manipur, Nagaland, and Arunachal Pradesh.
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The most significant declaration concerns Manipur, where the entire state, which has been grappling with intense ethnic violence since May 2023, has been declared a “disturbed area”. However, the notification maintains the previous exemptions, excluding the jurisdiction of 13 police stations across five valley districts—Imphal West, Imphal East, Thoubal, Bishnupur, and Kakching. This partial removal reflects a move towards reducing the law’s footprint in more stable, urban centres, even as the overall security situation warrants the continued enforcement of the stringent law across the rest of the state, which is currently under President’s Rule.
AFSPA grants the armed forces operating in “disturbed areas” sweeping powers to search, arrest without a warrant, and even open fire with legal immunity. While the government maintains the law is essential for combating insurgency and separatism, it has long been criticised by human rights activists and local populations as a “draconian” measure enabling impunity and alleged human rights abuses.
Beyond Manipur, the law has also been extended for six months in:
Nagaland: Nine districts and 21 police station areas across five other districts, a status quo measure taken after a review of the internal security landscape.
Arunachal Pradesh: The districts of Tirap, Changlang, and Longding, along with three police station areas in Namsai district that border Assam, continuing its application in regions considered volatile due to proximity to the Assam-Arunachal border and historical militancy.
The Centre’s decision underscores the assessment that while the security situation remains sensitive, gradual steps toward revocation, like the exclusion of specific police station areas, are being taken in select parts of the Northeast.
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The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d…Read More
The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d… Read More
September 27, 2025, 06:31 IST
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