<h4>Supreme Court Halts Criminal Cases under AFSPA</h4><p>The <strong>Supreme Court (SC)</strong> recently made a significant ruling concerning the <strong>Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA)</strong>. This decision has implications for accountability within the armed forces operating in disturbed areas.</p><p>The <strong>SC</strong> has taken a crucial step by <strong>quashing First Information Reports (FIRs)</strong> and setting aside all ongoing proceedings. This action specifically targeted <strong>30 personnel</strong> from the <strong>21 Para (Special Force)</strong> unit.</p><h4>The Nagaland Incident</h4><p>These military personnel were accused of allegedly <strong>killing civilians</strong> in <strong>Nagaland</strong>. The incident brought to the forefront the complexities surrounding military operations and civilian protection in regions under <strong>AFSPA</strong>.</p><div class='info-box'><p><strong>Context:</strong> The case involves allegations of civilian casualties during an operation in <strong>Nagaland</strong>. This state is often under <strong>AFSPA</strong>, which grants special powers to armed forces.</p></div><h4>Role of Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA)</h4><p>A key factor in the <strong>SC's</strong> decision was the stance taken by the <strong>Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA)</strong>. The <strong>MHA</strong> declined to grant the necessary <strong>sanctions</strong> for initiating criminal prosecution against the accused personnel.</p><div class='key-point-box'><p><strong>Sanction for Prosecution:</strong> Under various laws, including aspects related to <strong>AFSPA</strong>, government sanction is often required before criminal proceedings can be initiated against armed forces personnel for actions taken in discharge of their official duties.</p></div><div class='exam-tip-box'><p><strong>UPSC Insight:</strong> This case highlights the delicate balance between <strong>national security</strong>, <strong>human rights</strong>, and the <strong>accountability</strong> of armed forces. It's crucial for understanding <strong>GS-II (Polity & Governance)</strong> and <strong>GS-III (Internal Security)</strong> topics.</p></div>