Daily Current Affairs : 1-April-2024

The Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has recently decided to extend the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA) in parts of Nagaland and Arunachal Pradesh for another six months. This act has been a significant part of India’s approach to preserving public order in regions experiencing unrest.

What is AFSPA?

The Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act was enacted by the Indian Parliament in 1958. It applies to several northeastern states, including:

  • Arunachal Pradesh
  • Assam
  • Manipur
  • Meghalaya
  • Mizoram
  • Nagaland
  • Tripura

AFSPA is aimed at addressing situations in “disturbed areas,” which are regions experiencing violence, insurgency, or armed conflict.

Powers Granted Under AFSPA

The act grants special powers to the military, paramilitary, and other security forces to manage such unrest. Here are the key powers provided by AFSPA:

  • Use of Force: Security forces can use force, including lethal force, against individuals suspected of violating the law.
  • Arrest without Warrant: Authorities can arrest individuals without needing a warrant, which means they can act quickly in emergencies.
  • Search and Entry: They can enter and search homes and other premises without a warrant, allowing them to gather intelligence.
  • Shoot to Kill: Security personnel have the authority to shoot to kill if they believe it is necessary to maintain order.
  • Destruction of Property: The act permits the destruction of property that is “likely” to be used by insurgents, which can include weapons or hideouts.

Implications of the Extension

The extension of AFSPA in Nagaland and Arunachal Pradesh has significant implications:

  • Security Measures: It indicates the government’s commitment to maintaining order in these areas, where tensions may persist.
  • Human Rights Concerns: Critics argue that the powers granted under AFSPA can lead to human rights abuses, as the military operates with less oversight.
  • Local Sentiment: Many residents in these regions feel that AFSPA creates a climate of fear and distrust towards security forces.

Important Points:

AFSPA Extension: The Union Ministry of Home Affairs extended AFSPA in parts of Nagaland and Arunachal Pradesh for another six months.

What is AFSPA?:

  • Enacted in 1958 by the Indian Parliament.
  • Applies to northeastern states: Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Tripura.
  • Aims to address violence and unrest in “disturbed areas.”

Key Powers Granted Under AFSPA:

  • Use of Force: Security forces can use lethal force against law violators.
  • Arrest without Warrant: Authorities can arrest individuals without a warrant.
  • Search and Entry: Security forces can enter and search premises without a warrant.
  • Shoot to Kill: Personnel can shoot if deemed necessary to maintain order.
  • Destruction of Property: Allows destruction of property used by insurgents.

Implications of the Extension:

  • Security Measures: Reflects the government’s commitment to maintaining order.
  • Human Rights Concerns: Raises issues about potential abuses due to reduced oversight.
  • Local Sentiment: Creates feelings of fear and distrust among residents towards security forces.

Why In News

The Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has extended the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA) in parts of Nagaland and Arunachal Pradesh for another six months, indicating ongoing security challenges in these regions that necessitate military intervention.

MCQs about AFSPA

  1. What is the primary purpose of the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA)?
    A. To promote tourism in northeastern states
    B. To maintain public order in “disturbed areas”
    C. To support economic development
    D. To enforce environmental laws
    Correct Answer: B. To maintain public order in “disturbed areas”
    Explanation: AFSPA is aimed at addressing situations of unrest, violence, or armed conflict in regions designated as “disturbed areas.”
  2. Which of the following states is NOT covered by AFSPA?
    A. Arunachal Pradesh
    B. Tripura
    C. Gujarat
    D. Manipur
    Correct Answer: C. Gujarat
    Explanation: AFSPA applies to several northeastern states, including Arunachal Pradesh, Tripura, and Manipur, but not to Gujarat.
  3. Under AFSPA, security forces have the authority to:
    A. Conduct arrests only with a warrant
    B. Use lethal force against suspected law violators
    C. Hold public trials for suspected insurgents
    D. Confiscate personal property without any conditions
    Correct Answer: B. Use lethal force against suspected law violators
    Explanation: AFSPA grants security forces the power to use lethal force if necessary to maintain order, especially in cases of suspected law violations.
  4. What is one of the major criticisms of the AFSPA?
    A. It encourages peaceful negotiations.
    B. It can lead to human rights abuses due to lack of oversight.
    C. It significantly reduces military spending.
    D. It has no impact on local communities.
    Correct Answer: B. It can lead to human rights abuses due to lack of oversight.
    Explanation: Critics argue that the powers given under AFSPA can result in human rights violations since the military operates with reduced scrutiny in conflict areas.

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