Guwahati: Addressing the media on Monday at Dergoan where he visited to attend a conference of commandants Assam chief minister Dr Himanta Biswa Sarma said that the government has decided to withdraw Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA) completely from the state by 2023.

Sarma also said that the government intends to rope in retired military personnel to train the police force of Assam.
“The situation is improving in Assam. So, the government is of the opinion that at an opportune time AFSA can be withdrawn from the state completely,” Sarma said.

On the role of Assam police battalions, Sarma said that they can replace Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) in those areas where CAPF’s services are no longer required.

“The CAPF can be deployed in other parts as per the need of the hour. Regarding the aspect of law and order situation I am of the opinion that we will have to empower Assam police. They should be trained in this area. Without using lethal weapons how can they control an unruly mob will have to be seen and for this to happen a proper mechanism should be in place. Rather a proper training is required,” Sarma opined.

Meanwhile, it also needs to be stated here that the chief minister attended the conference of Assam police battalion at Dergaon and it was held for the first time.

“We have started a new journey today. This conference will continue. We shall meet again after six months,” said the chief minister.