Guwahati: Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Thursday announced that the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA) will be withdrawn from the entire Northeast region next year, barring one or two states. Speaking at the signing of a tripartite Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Centre, Assam, and Nagaland to facilitate mineral oil operations in boundary areas, Shah stated that the shrinking footprint of AFSPA is a clear indicator of peace returning to the region.
Peace and Development in the Northeast
“I am confident that barring one or two states, we will withdraw AFSPA from the entire Northeast next year,” Shah said. He emphasized that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has placed the Northeast at the center of his governance agenda, becoming the Prime Minister with the highest number of visits to the region. Shah highlighted the government’s record of 12 accords signed since 2019 between various groups and state governments, which he said has led to a dramatic 80% drop in violence.
Tripartite MoU on Mineral Oil Operations
The Union Home Minister’s remarks came against the backdrop of the new tripartite pact on mineral oil operations, which he described as another milestone in the Centre’s push to integrate the Northeast into India’s growth story. The MoU aims to streamline mineral oil extraction in boundary areas, fostering economic development and cooperation between the states.
Shah’s statement underscores the government’s commitment to reducing the presence of security forces in the region as peace consolidates. The withdrawal of AFSPA, which grants special powers to the armed forces, has been a long-standing demand of several civil society groups in the Northeast.
Impact on Regional Stability
The reduction in violence and the series of peace accords have been pivotal in creating an environment conducive to development. Shah noted that the government’s efforts have resulted in improved connectivity, infrastructure, and economic opportunities in the region. The phased withdrawal of AFSPA is expected to further boost confidence among local communities and encourage investment.
While specific states where AFSPA will remain have not been named, the announcement signals a significant shift in the region’s security landscape. The Ministry of Home Affairs is expected to finalize the list of states after consultations with state governments and security agencies.
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