September 26, 2024: The Indian government has announced a six-month extension of the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA) in select areas of Nagaland and Arunachal Pradesh. The decision, made following a thorough review of the law and order situation in the northeastern states, affects eight districts in Nagaland, three districts in Arunachal Pradesh, and additional areas deemed "disturbed."

AFSPA grants the armed forces significant powers in these regions, enabling them to conduct searches, make arrests, and use lethal force if necessary to maintain public order. The Union Home Ministry has issued a notification stating that this designation will remain in effect from October 1, 2024, unless revoked earlier.

The districts in Nagaland impacted by this extension include Dimapur, Niuland, Chumoukedima, Mon, Kiphire, Noklak, Phek, and Peren. Additionally, 21 police stations across five other districts of Nagaland will continue to be classified as disturbed areas under the Act.

The continuation of AFSPA has drawn mixed reactions from local communities, with some advocating for greater security measures while others argue for the repeal of the Act due to concerns over human rights violations. The government’s decision underscores ongoing tensions and the complex security landscape in the region.