Defense Minister Rajnath Singh has indicated the potential withdrawal of the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA) from the Kashmir valley, although emphasizing that the final decision rests with the Union Home Ministry.

In an interview with Network 18, Singh said: “This law can be removed but the decision lies with the Union Home Ministry. Once reports reach the concerned ministry, the decision will be made accordingly.”

AFSPA, which grants extensive powers to armed forces personnel in troubled areas, including the authority to search, arrest, and use force for maintaining public order, was introduced in Jammu and Kashmir during the 1990s.

Last week, Union Home Minister Amit Shah had also hinted at the possibility of revoking AFSPA from Jammu and Kashmir in recent statements.

The Act was implemented in response to perceived disturbances in various parts of the state, allowing defense forces to contribute to peacekeeping efforts.