News Reporter
Only Three Assam Districts Now Under AFSPA
In a significant move toward restoring normalcy, Assam Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma announced that the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA) has been officially withdrawn from Dibrugarh district. With this decision, only Tinsukia, Sivasagar, and Charaideo remain under the purview of AFSPA in the state.
Government’s Push for Stability
Speaking at a cabinet press briefing, CM Sarma highlighted that the removal of AFSPA from Dibrugarh is part of the state government’s broader strategy to restore peace and promote development in the region.
"I would like to inform you that the Ministry of Home Affairs has withdrawn AFSPA from Dibrugarh district. As you know, the Assam government has already been in the process of upgrading Dibrugarh as the second capital of the state. We requested the Union Home Minister, who promptly decided to withdraw AFSPA. Now, only three districts remain under AFSPA, while the rest of the 32 districts are free from it," CM Sarma stated.
AFSPA in Assam: A Gradual Withdrawal
AFSPA, which grants special powers to the armed forces in areas declared as “disturbed”, has been in force in Assam for several decades due to insurgency concerns. However, with improved law and order, peace accords with militant groups, and a decline in insurgency-related incidents, the government has been systematically phasing out the Act.
The withdrawal of AFSPA from most of Assam is seen as a positive step for investment, infrastructure growth, and governance reforms, paving the way for economic progress and enhanced civil liberties in the state.
Future Plans: AFSPA-Free Assam?
The Assam government aims to create an AFSPA-free state in the near future. With continuous efforts to engage with insurgent groups, improve security conditions, and foster economic growth, the final withdrawal of AFSPA from the remaining districts could be the next big milestone.
This latest development aligns with the government’s vision of transforming Assam into a safer, more progressive state, ensuring stability and fostering long-term development.