Centre Removes AFSPA from Parts of North-Eastern States

On 31^st March, 2022, the Union government decided to reduce the areas under AFSPA in the states of Nagaland, Assam and Manipur with effect from 1^st April, 2022.

Reason: The move came three months after the Union government constituted a high-level committee to examine the possibility of lifting the AFSPA in Nagaland where 14 civilians were killed by the army in December 2021 in a case of "mistaken identity".

Significance

• Demilitarising the Region: The Northeast has lived under the shadow of AFSPA for nearly 60 years, creating a feeling of alienation from the rest of the country. The move is expected to help demilitarise the region; it will lift restrictions of movements through check points and frisking of residents.
• Stability and Prosperity: Reduction in areas under AFSPA is a result of the improved security situation and fast-tracked development due to the consistent efforts and several agreements to end insurgency and bring lasting peace and stability in North East regions.