AFSPA

The Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act, commonly known as AFSPA, is a legislation enacted by the Parliament of India. It grants extensive powers to the armed forces in areas that are declared "disturbed areas." The act has been in force since 1958 and its application is often controversial.

AFSPA allows members of the armed forces to open fire upon or use any kind of force against any person in contravention of the law or for the maintenance of law and order, even if it results in death. They can also arrest any person without a warrant if they believe that person has committed or is about to commit a cognizable offense. Furthermore, the armed forces can enter and search any premise without a warrant and destroy any arms, ammunition, or explosive material suspected to be used by insurgents. Any person arrested or taken into custody under AFSPA can be handed over to the officer in charge of the nearest police station along with a report detailing the reasons for the arrest.

The act is primarily invoked in regions facing significant internal conflict or insurgency, often in the northeastern states of India and parts of Jammu and Kashmir. Its objective is to help security forces combat terrorism and maintain order. However, AFSPA has faced considerable criticism from human rights organizations and local populations who allege misuse of powers, leading to extrajudicial killings, torture, and impunity for security personnel. Protests and demands for the repeal of AFSPA have been ongoing in various regions where it is implemented.