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APSC Answer Writing (Daily) based on Assam Tribune – 22/05/2025

For APSC CCE and other Assam Competitive examinations aspirants, practicing Daily Answer Writing is vital. This blog covers the most important Main question and its model Answer from the Assam Tribune today (22-05-2025).

📝 Mains Question:

Q. Critically examine the relevance of the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA), 1958 in the context of the Northeast. What are the key concerns surrounding the Act and what reforms can make it more accountable and democratic?
(GS Paper 3 – Internal Security | APSC GS Paper 5 – Northeast-Specific Law & Order)
Word Limit: 250

✅ Model Answer:

🔹 Introduction

The Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA), 1958 provides special powers to the armed forces in “disturbed areas” to maintain public order. While originally enacted to counter insurgency, its continuation in parts of Nagaland and Arunachal Pradesh, even in 2025, raises questions about its democratic and human rights compatibility.

🔍 Relevance in the Northeast

Security Challenges Remain: Active insurgent groups like NSCN-K, cross-border arms flow from Myanmar, and unresolved peace accords warrant military preparedness.
Strategic Geography: Proximity to international borders (China, Myanmar, Bangladesh) necessitates strong internal security.
Weak Local Policing: Civilian law enforcement capacity is still uneven in hilly and remote areas.

⚠️ Major Concerns

Concern	Description
Human Rights Violations	Allegations of extrajudicial killings, torture, and harassment
Legal Immunity	Section 6 prevents prosecution of armed forces without Central sanction
Alienation of Citizens	Prolonged use creates resentment and distrust among local populations
Federalism Issues	Centre can override state’s views in declaring disturbed areas

🛠️ Suggested Reforms

Phase-wise Withdrawal: Based on violence indicators and peace accord progress
Independent Oversight Bodies: State Human Rights Commissions should audit AFSPA operations
Amend Section 6: To allow time-bound judicial review of armed forces’ actions
Enhance Police Capacity: Train and equip local forces to eventually replace army deployments
Community Confidence Building: Dialogue with civil society and tribal groups to ensure cooperation

🧩 Conclusion

While AFSPA may be necessary in select pockets, its blanket extension undermines democratic legitimacy and state accountability. A calibrated, transparent, and rights-based approach must replace the legacy of militarised governance in the Northeast.

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