PM asks forces to be humane, but act firmly against militants

Srinagar, May 24 (UNI) Prime Minister Manmohan Singh today asked the security forces to be humane and work within prescribed parameters while dealing effectively, efficiently and firmly with militants in Jammu and Kashmir and asserted that there will be zero tolerance for custodial deaths.

''It is possible and desirable that you should be firm but humane, effective and efficient, in control but unobtrusive,'' the Prime Minister told the security forces while chairing a Unified Command meeting here for the first time here.

Briefing reporters, Prime Minister's media advisor Sanjaya Baru said Dr Singh, at the 90-minute meeting, asked the security forces to function within the parameters of law at all times.

''You must be steadfast in your commitment to human rights and there should be zero tolerance for custodial deaths,'' Dr Baru quoted the Prime Minister as having told the armed forces.

Dr Baru said the Prime Minister paid tributes to the gallantry and the bravery of the armed forces who were defending peace and security of the state against all odds.

The Unified Command meeting was attended by Union Home Minister Shivraj Patil, Union Minister of State for Home Sriprakash Jaiswal, Jammu and Kashmir Governor Lt Gen (retd) S K Sinha, Chief Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad, his deputy Muzaffar Hussain Baig, National Security Advisor M K Narayanan, Union Home Secretary V K Duggal besides senior officials of the Army, state police, para-military forces and the intelligence agencies.

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