Centre Extends AFSPA in Nine Nagaland Districts Amid Security Review
The Central Government, in a significant move, has officially declared nine districts of Nagaland as "disturbed areas" under the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA), 1958. This declaration, announced on Monday, is set to remain in effect for a period of six months, following a comprehensive assessment of the law and order situation in the northeastern state.
Notification Details and Effective Date
A notification issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs specifies that the order will come into force from April 1, 2026, unless withdrawn earlier. This decision comes after the expiry of a previous order from September 2025, which had similarly imposed AFSPA in parts of Nagaland for six months.
List of Affected Districts
The nine districts declared as disturbed under AFSPA include:
- Dimapur
- Niuland
- Chumoukedima
- Mon
- Kiphire
- Noklak
- Phek
- Peren
- Meluri
This designation brings these areas under the purview of AFSPA, granting security forces special powers to maintain public order and counter insurgency threats.
Additional Police Station Areas Included
Beyond the nine districts, the notification also extends the disturbed area status to specific police station jurisdictions in other districts of Nagaland. These include:
- Kohima district: Khuzama, Kohima North, Kohima South, Zubza
- Mokokchung district: Mangkolemba, Mokokchung-I, Longtho, Tuli, Longchem, Anaki 'C'
- Wokha district: Bhandari, Champang, Ralan
- Zunheboto district: Ghathashi, Pughoboto, Satakha, Suruhuto, Zunheboto, Aghunato
This broader coverage aims to address security concerns across various regions within the state.
Rationale and Implications
After reviewing the prevailing security situation, the Centre has decided to extend the imposition of AFSPA in these areas. Under AFSPA, security forces are empowered with special authorities to ensure stability and tackle insurgency threats in notified disturbed areas. The move is part of ongoing efforts to enhance law enforcement capabilities and address persistent security challenges in Nagaland and the broader Northeast India region.
The declaration underscores the government's commitment to maintaining peace and order, while also highlighting the complex security dynamics in the area. It reflects a proactive approach to managing internal security matters through legal frameworks designed for conflict zones.
