New Delhi: Asking north-eastern states to
develop a proactive police force rather than relying on
Central security forces, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh Monday said the situation in Assam, Manipur and Nagaland remains
"problematic and worrisome".
"There is need in the Northeast for more emphasis on
pro-active state police forces rather than exclusive reliance
on Central paramilitary forces and Army. The resources for
policing need to be enhanced substantially," Singh said.
He said Assam and Manipur account for "disproportionately"
large number of violent incidents reported from the area with
the latter`s share being as high as 30 per cent.
"Manipur has increased the number of sanctioned posts at
the police station level but a large number of them remain
unfilled," the Prime Minister said addressing the Chief
Ministers` Conference on internal security here.
Noting that Manipur is plagued by a large number of
militant outfits, he said, appropriate mechanisms were needed
for increased participation of people in developmental work.
Singh said all the states in the Northeast would do well
to ensure transparency in the recruitment of police and ensure
representation of all groups and communities in the force.
He asked the north eastern states to pay attention to
implementation of infrastructure projects.
Singh said Rs 750 crore have been sanctioned to Assam for
development of Bodo areas but utilisation of these funds was
unsatisfactory and was concerned over delay in resettlement
and rehabilitation of those hit by Bodo violence.
Bureau Report
