Arunachal Pradesh Under AFSPA's Shadow: Three Districts Declared 'Disturbed' Amid Persistent Insurgency

In a significant move underscoring the persistent security challenges in India’s northeastern frontier, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has once again declared three districts in Arunachal Pradesh – Tirap, Changlang, and Longding – along with specific areas under Namsai and Mahadevpur police stations in Namsai district, as ‘disturbed areas’ under the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA), 1958.

This crucial declaration, effective from April 1, extends the controversial law for another six months, reflecting the government's continued concerns over the volatile security landscape.

The decision to maintain the 'disturbed area' status is not arbitrary. It stems from detailed assessments highlighting the continued presence and operational activities of various insurgent groups.

The MHA's notification explicitly points to the "dangerous condition" prevailing in these regions, citing the involvement of proscribed outfits such as the National Socialist Council of Nagaland (Khaplang) – NSCN (K), National Socialist Council of Nagaland (Isak-Muivah) – NSCN (IM), and the United Liberation Front of Assam (Independent) – ULFA(I).

These groups are notorious for their involvement in extortion, illegal taxation, kidnapping, and violent acts, which severely disrupt peace and development in these remote areas.

AFSPA grants extraordinary powers to the armed forces in areas deemed ‘disturbed’. These powers include the authority to search premises, arrest individuals without a warrant, and even use lethal force if necessary, to maintain public order.

While proponents argue that AFSPA is essential for counter-insurgency operations and to protect national security, critics often raise concerns about potential human rights abuses and the alienation of local populations.

Historically, the application of AFSPA in the Northeast has been a subject of intense debate.

Just last year, the central government made headlines by reducing the territorial extent of AFSPA in Assam, Nagaland, and Manipur, responding to improved security situations and long-standing demands from civil society. However, these positive developments have not yet reached parts of Arunachal Pradesh.

The continued imposition in Tirap, Changlang, Longding, and specific parts of Namsai underscores that despite broader regional improvements, these particular pockets remain hotbeds of insurgency, demanding sustained security attention.

The Ministry's notification serves as a stark reminder of the complex and multifaceted security challenges that continue to plague certain regions of India's Northeast.

While efforts are underway to foster peace and development, the extension of AFSPA in these specific districts highlights the government's resolve to neutralize threats posed by armed groups and ensure the safety and security of its citizens, even as it balances these imperatives with the need for long-term solutions and greater regional stability.