The Assam government on Wednesday extended the existing ‘disturbed area’ status of the state for another six months from February 27 under the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA) with the state assembly elections is close at hand. It is to be noted that the officials did not state any particular reason for the extension. However, sources close to PTI has stated that the order was issued in view of the assembly elections due in April-May and recovery of arms and ammunitions from some parts of the state. “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of Assam has declared the entire state of Assam as ‘disturbed area’ upto 6 (six) months beyond 27/02/2021, unless withdrawn earlier," the official release stated. "The unified command structure comprising the Army, various central paramilitary and intelligence agencies and Assam Police always closely monitor the situations and terror activities in Assam," the official said.

Source: dna February 25, 2021 06:00 UTC