AFSPA EXTENDED IN NAGALAND FOR SIX MONTHS FROM 30 DECEMBER 2021

AFSPA EXTENDED IN NAGALAND FOR SIX MONTHS FROM 30 DECEMBER 2021

Context:

On December 30, 2021, the central government declared the whole of Nagaland a “disturbed area” for another six months, under the AFSPA Act.

Key Highlights:

• This proclamation will take effect, effective December 30, 2021.
• The government also called the state's situation "disturbed and dangerous".

Centre’s Take:

• The central government is of the opinion that the whole of Nagaland is in such a state of disarray and danger that it is necessary to use armed forces to help the strength of the people.
• The central government used the powers conferred on it by Section 3 of the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act, 1958 to declare the entire Nagaland as a ‘disturbed area’.
• This decision has come from the Panel headed by secretary-level officer Vivek Joshi.

AFSPA Act:

• The Armed Forces Special Powers Act, 1958 empowers the army to maintain public order in "disturbed areas". 
• In the process, soldiers are authorized to use force or to open fire after warning anyone found to be in violation of the law.

Disturbed Area:

• The area where the use of armed forces in the service of public power is necessary is called a disturbed area. 
• Any area may be declared a disturbed area, under section 3 of the AFSPA.