AFSPA withdrawal only if the situation is peaceful: CM Himanta Biswa Sarma

STAFF REPORTER

GUWAHATI: If a peaceful atmosphere prevails in Assam, then the government will decide whether the AFSPA (Armed Forces Special Powers Act) is required for the entire state or partially.

Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma stated this in reply to a question regarding the recent shootout in the Mon District of Nagaland. The question was raised by media persons at the Assam Legislative Assembly Secretariat premises here on Monday.

CM Sarma pointed out, "Recently, the Government of Arunachal withdrew AFSPA (except in three districts) in consultation with the MHA (Ministry of Home Affairs).

"The Government of Assam is also of the view that if such peaceful atmosphere continues then, at a later date, we will be able to take a call whether we need AFSPA in entire Assam or partially. No State government wants to continue with AFSPA if the law-and-order situation is normal."

The Chief Minister posed, "Suppose I withdraw the AFSPA; will the militant organisations reciprocate?

"If they do not do so and the government withdraws AFSPA then the Army will not be able to carry out any operations against the militants. That situation will lead to chaos.

"I think AFSPA withdrawal is possible only when the overall law-and-order situation is peaceful in Assam.

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