The act gives sweeping powers to the armed forces operating in disturbed areas to search, arrest, and open fire if they deem it necessary,  The AFSPA has also been withdrawn from all districts except four in Assam, he said. 

A notification issued by the MHA specified that AFSPA would remain in force for the next six months in Dimapur, Niuland, Chumoukedima, Mon, Kiphire, Noklak, Phek, and Peren districts of Nagaland.

The state government’s home and political department submitted a proposal to this effect to the Union Ministry of Home Affairs, which, after due consideration, decided to maintain the ‘status quo’ regarding ‘disturbed area’ for an additional six-month period, an official said.

The Act, which grants special powers to security forces in "disturbed areas," will remain in effect in Tinsukia, Dibrugarh, Sivasagar, and Charaideo districts.

The AFSPA gives sweeping powers to the armed forces to ensure law and order. They can go for a cordon and search and arrest. Those ordering such action, and in case of any untoward incident, cannot be prosecuted without the approval of the government of India. 

Mehbooba said that one can only hope that the government at the Centre would meet its pledge, at least in this situation, because it would provide significant relief to the people of Jammu and Kashmir.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah announced on Tuesday that the central government will consider lifting the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA) in Jammu and Kashmir.