Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi has said that the revocation of the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA) from Jammu and Kashmir is a possibility, but the current security scenario does not support its removal.
Speaking at the India Today Conclave, General Dwivedi stated that AFSPA could be withdrawn once the Army is confident that local law enforcement can effectively manage security challenges. He pointed to regions like Doda, Rajouri, and Kishtwar, where stability was improving, with efforts to boost tourism through projects like bed-and-breakfast accommodations and the enhanced use of the Mughal Road.
However, he acknowledged the recent surge in militant activity, which has necessitated the deployment of 15,000 additional troops. He emphasized that any decision on AFSPA’s removal would be made jointly by the local administration, the Union Home Ministry, and the Defence Ministry, based on ground realities. [KNT]
