The Centre has decided to reduce disturbed areas under the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA) in Nagaland, Assam and Manipur after decades. In a series of tweets, Union Home Minister Amit Shah said, the reduction in areas under the AFSPA is a result of the improved security situation and fast-tracked development due to consistent efforts and several agreements to end insurgency and bring lasting peace in the North East.
He lauded Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his unwavering commitment saying that the North-Eastern region, which was neglected for decades is now witnessing a new era of peace, prosperity and unprecedented development. The Minister congratulated the people of the North East on this momentous occasion.
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said that AFSPA will be withdrawn from 60 percent areas of the state from last night.
Talking to media in Guwahati, the Chief Minister welcomed the decision of the Centre to withdraw AFSPA partially from 3 states of the North East. Mr. Sarma said the act will be in force only in 9 districts and 1 sub- division in Assam following the decision of the Centre. He said the withdrawal of the act would boost investment in North East.
The Chief Minister said with improvement in the law and order situation, the decision of the withdrawal of the act from the rest of the state will be taken.
On the issue of peace talks with the ULFA pro talk group, Mr. Sarma said the concerned persons have fast tracked the process.