New Delhi: Union Home Minister Amit Shah has announced that the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA) could be withdrawn from almost the entire Northeast by next year, marking a significant milestone in the region’s journey toward peace and normalcy. The announcement comes amid the Centre’s continued efforts to reduce insurgency and promote development across northeastern states.
Speaking at a public event, Shah said that only one or two northeastern states may continue to remain under the purview of AFSPA by 2027, reflecting what he described as a dramatic improvement in the security situation. The Home Minister credited peace agreements, enhanced development initiatives and stronger governance for the decline in insurgency-related incidents across the region.
AFSPA, a law that grants special powers to the armed forces in areas declared “disturbed,” has been in force in several northeastern states for decades due to insurgency and security concerns. In recent years, the central government has gradually reduced the areas covered under the Act following improvements in law and order.
Shah emphasized that the government’s approach combines security measures with economic development and political engagement. According to him, sustained efforts to bring insurgent groups into the mainstream and strengthen infrastructure have contributed significantly to restoring stability in the region.
Alongside the AFSPA announcement, the Home Minister highlighted a major Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at advancing India’s energy self-reliance. The agreement is expected to strengthen the country’s energy infrastructure, reduce dependence on imports and support long-term economic growth.
The proposed initiative aligns with the government’s broader vision of achieving energy security while accelerating industrial and economic development. Officials believe the agreement could play an important role in expanding domestic energy production and improving supply-chain resilience.
The Northeast has witnessed a significant reduction in violence over the past decade. Several peace accords signed with insurgent groups have helped bring stability to areas that were once affected by prolonged conflict. The Centre has also invested heavily in roads, railways, airports and digital connectivity projects across the region.
Political observers view Shah’s remarks as one of the strongest indications yet that the government is preparing for a historic transition in the Northeast’s security framework. A near-complete withdrawal of AFSPA would represent a major policy shift and could become one of the most significant milestones in the region’s modern history.
While no final timeline has been officially notified, the government’s target of removing AFSPA from most northeastern states by next year signals growing confidence in the region’s security environment. State governments and security agencies are expected to continue reviewing the situation before any final decisions are taken.
As India simultaneously pursues peace, regional development and energy self-sufficiency, the twin announcements underscore the government’s focus on long-term national security and economic resilience.
