Daijiworld Media Network - Guwahati
Guwahati, Mar 27: The Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA) has been removed from Assam’s Dibrugarh district, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced on Thursday. The decision, made by the Union Home Ministry, reflects a gradual reduction of AFSPA’s coverage across the state as security conditions improve.
AFSPA, which grants special powers to the armed forces in “disturbed areas,” will continue to remain in force in the districts of Tinsukia, Sibsagar, and Charaideo.
Speaking at a press briefing in Guwahati, CM Sarma emphasized the steady rollback of AFSPA.
"At one point, the entire state was under AFSPA. Today, with the Centre’s decision to remove the ‘disturbed area’ status from Dibrugarh, only three districts remain under the Act. We are committed to reducing this further in the coming days," he stated.
This move aligns with Assam’s ongoing development plans, including the recent announcement to upgrade Dibrugarh town as Assam’s second capital, alongside Dispur. CM Sarma noted that lifting AFSPA will further accelerate the district’s growth and stability.
AFSPA was initially imposed statewide in 1990, at the height of insurgent activities led by the United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA). Since then, the Act has been renewed every six months, with its coverage shrinking based on security reviews.
CM Sarma highlighted that peace and stability have now become permanent features in Assam. He credited the state and Central government’s peace efforts, including four major peace accords signed since 2021 with Karbi, Adivasi, Dimasa, and ULFA insurgent groups.
Additionally, the 2020 peace agreement with the National Democratic Front of Bodoland (NDFB) led to the surrender of 9,583 militants, significantly reducing insurgent activities in the region.
"In the last three years, with sustained efforts and active support from the Union government, Assam has transformed. Almost all major militant groups have surrendered, paving the way for a ‘Viksit Assam’ (Developed Assam)," CM Sarma concluded.
With AFSPA now limited to just three districts, Assam moves closer to a future free from the shadow of insurgency and special military laws.