Ahead of state assembly polls, Assam govt extends ‘Disturbed Area’ tag for 6 months

Feb. 24: With assembly elections knocking on the doors, the Governor of Assam, Prof. Jagdish Mukhi has declared the entire State of Assam as “Disturbed Area” upto 6 months beyond February 27, unless withdrawn earlier. In an order released on February 24, it was informed that, “As per powers conferred under Section 3 of the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act, 1958, the Governor of Assam has declared the entire State of Assam as “Disturbed Area” upto 6 (six) months beyond 27/02/2021, unless withdrawn earlier.” Armed forces deployed in disturbed areas are empowered to arrest, search any premises and even shoot anyone without any warrant. The AFSPA is renewed every six months.