📷 Image: Wikimedia Commons / Haoreima
Defence
AFSPA Extended for 6 Months in Manipur, Nagaland, Arunachal Pradesh
✍️ outlookindia.com
🗓 26 Sep 2026, 11:37 AM
👁 18
The Indian government has extended the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA) for an additional six months in the states of Manipur, Nagaland and Arunachal Pradesh, following a recent parliamentary decision.
The Ministry of Home Affairs announced that the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA) will remain in force for another six months in the northeastern states of Manipur, Nagaland and Arunachal Pradesh. The extension follows a parliamentary vote that approved the continuation of the act, which has been a key tool for the Indian Army in maintaining security in areas affected by insurgency.
AFSPA, enacted in 1958, grants special powers to the armed forces in “disturbed areas” and has been a subject of debate over its impact on civil liberties. The decision to extend the act for half a year is aimed at addressing ongoing security challenges in the region.
The extension is scheduled to expire on 30th March 2025, after which the government will reassess the security situation and decide whether further measures are required. The move underscores the central government’s focus on maintaining stability in the North East while balancing concerns about human rights and governance.
The announcement was made during a press briefing by the Home Minister, who highlighted the need for continued military presence to counter insurgent activities and to support local law‑enforcement agencies.
Local officials in the three states have welcomed the extension as a necessary step to ensure peace and order, while civil‑rights groups have urged for a review of the act’s provisions to safeguard civilian rights.
AFSPA, enacted in 1958, grants special powers to the armed forces in “disturbed areas” and has been a subject of debate over its impact on civil liberties. The decision to extend the act for half a year is aimed at addressing ongoing security challenges in the region.
The extension is scheduled to expire on 30th March 2025, after which the government will reassess the security situation and decide whether further measures are required. The move underscores the central government’s focus on maintaining stability in the North East while balancing concerns about human rights and governance.
The announcement was made during a press briefing by the Home Minister, who highlighted the need for continued military presence to counter insurgent activities and to support local law‑enforcement agencies.
Local officials in the three states have welcomed the extension as a necessary step to ensure peace and order, while civil‑rights groups have urged for a review of the act’s provisions to safeguard civilian rights.