AFSPA EXTENDED BY SIX MONTHS IN ASSAM

Guwahati, March 4, 2018:

The Assam government has announced extension of the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA) by another six months in the state.

According to a statement, the Home and Political Department of Assam, through a notification issued on February 28, declared the entire state a "disturbed area" under the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act, 1958.

The Act, which gives special rights and immunity to security forces in carrying out various operations in "disturbed" areas, has been extended by up to six months unless withdrawn earlier.

However, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh had on Thursday said the law and order situation in Assam had improved and the era of violence was over.