A meeting of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) Monday backed the government on the anti-terrorism ordinance amidst indications that it was open to suggestions for amendments to the controversial legislation to take care of opposition misgivings. A two-hour meeting of the coalition adopted a resolution expressing the view that the Prevention of Terrorism Ordinance (POTO) was very necessary in the prevailing extra-ordinary circumstances and unanimously supported it.
Briefing newsmen, NDA convenor George Fernandes said at the same time the meeting requested the government to take necessary steps to remove any apprehensions that the ordinance could be misused against the press, political opponents or any specific community. NDA sources said the government might consider some amendments to POTO regarding controversial provisions.

The sources indicated that the bill to replace the ordinance might be brought before parliament towards the middle of the winter session that began Monday.
Maneka Gandhi, who was divested of culture portfolio Sunday night, did not attend the meeting. Akali Dal and Trinamool Congress representatives also did not attend the meeting.
Fernandes said Akali Dal minister Sukhdev Singh Dhindsa was busy with the National Games in Punjab while Trinamool leaders were busy with local body elections in West Bengal.
Bureau Report