AFSPA in Manipur
AFSPA Extended in Northeastern States: Manipur has witnessed ethnic violence since May 2023, leading to prolonged instability. The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) extended AFSPA for another six months in most areas of the State, except for 13 police station areas across five valley districts such as Imphal and Lamphel.
Earlier, the Act was withdrawn from all valley districts between April 2022 and April 2023 due to improved security. However, renewed clashes led to its reimposition in November 2024 in six police station areas. The hill districts remain under AFSPA for more than 30 years, reflecting deep-rooted unrest. In February 2025, President’s Rule was imposed in the State.
Static GK fact: Manipur attained full statehood in 1972, after being a Union Territory since 1949.
AFSPA in Nagaland
The Act continues for another six months in nine districts including Dimapur, Mon, and Phek, and also covers 21 police station areas across five other districts. Nagaland has historically been one of the most insurgency-affected regions in India.
Insurgent groups and cross-border tensions have made AFSPA a long-standing instrument for maintaining order. Despite peace talks with Naga insurgent groups, the law remains in force.
Static GK fact: Nagaland was carved out of Assam and became India’s 16th State in 1963.
AFSPA in Arunachal Pradesh
In Arunachal Pradesh, AFSPA remains effective in Tirap, Changlang, and Longding districts. Additionally, areas under Namsai, Mahadevpur, and Chowkham police stations bordering Assam are also covered. These regions have faced infiltration and insurgent activity from neighboring areas.
Static GK fact: Arunachal Pradesh shares international borders with Bhutan, China, and Myanmar.
Legal Provisions under AFSPA
AFSPA was first enacted in 1958 to tackle insurgency in the Northeast. It provides armed forces with special powers in disturbed areas, including:
- Use of lethal force against those violating laws
- Arrest without warrant
- Search of premises without prior approval
- Protection from prosecution without sanction of the Central Government
Supporters argue it is vital for maintaining order, while critics highlight alleged human rights violations.
Static GK Tip: Article 355 of the Indian Constitution empowers the Union to protect States against external aggression and internal disturbances, forming a constitutional basis for AFSPA.
Historical Background and Implications
AFSPA has been in force in Manipur since 1981 and remains a deeply debated law. While authorities view it as necessary for counter-insurgency operations, civil society groups demand its repeal due to alleged misuse by security forces.
The recent extension underlines the fragile security situation in the Northeast and the challenges of restoring peace. It highlights the balance between national security and civil rights, an issue that continues to dominate discussions on the Act.
Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table
AFSPA Extended in Northeastern States:
| Topic | Detail |
| Law | Armed Forces Special Powers Act, 1958 |
| States Covered | Manipur, Nagaland, Arunachal Pradesh |
| Manipur Status | AFSPA in force except 13 police stations |
| Nagaland Status | 9 districts + 21 police station areas |
| Arunachal Pradesh Status | Tirap, Changlang, Longding + Namsai areas |
| Duration of Extension | Six months from October 2025 |
| Manipur President’s Rule | Imposed February 2025 |
| First Enactment of AFSPA | 1958 |
| Manipur under AFSPA | Since 1981 |
| Controversy | Human rights violation concerns |
