Assam: Under AFSPA, ‘disturbed areas’ were removed from West Karbi-Anglang

Under AFSPA, ‘disturbed areas’ were removed from West Karbi-Anglang.

GUWAHATI: The Assam government has abolished “disturbed areas” under the controversial Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA) from West Karbi Anglong district from October 1.

However, the government retained AFSPA for another six months in eight other districts bordering Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland and a subdivision bordering Manipur.
“Whereas, a review of the law and order and security scenario in Assam in the recent past indicates that the situation in West Karbi Anglong district of the state has improved considerably.”

“…In exercise of the powers conferred under Section 3 of the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act, 1958… the Governor of Assam is pleased to withdraw the declaration of -Disturbed Area w.e.f. West Karbi Anglong District of Assam.” from 01.10.2022,” said the order of the Governor of Assam.
The eight districts of Assam where AFSPA will remain in force are Tansukia, Dibrugarh, Chiraidev, Sivasagar, Jorhat, Golaghat, Karbi Anglong and Dima Hasau and one sub-division, Lakhipur, Cachar district.

On April 1 this year, the Center completely removed AFSPA from 23 districts and partially removed it from one district in Assam.
Assam was declared a disturbed area on 27 November 1990 when the entire state was brought under AFSPA.

Since then it has been extended from time to time.