AFSPA could be made more ''humane'' through amendments: PM

Imphal, Dec 2 (UNI) Prime Minister Manmohan Singh today declared that the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act, 1958, could be amended to make it more ''humane'', giving due regard to the protection of human and civil rights.

Addressing a massive rally at Kangla, Dr Singh said the Act could be amended by modifying certain existing provisions or inserting new provisions.

The Prime Minister reminded the people that he had addressed them on November 20, 2004, on the historic occasion of the handing over of the Kangla fort to the people of Manipur, evoking thunderous applause.

The Kangla development project was on the right track and the fort, which symbolised bravery, patriotism and sense of sacrifice of all Manipuris, would become a prominent attraction.

The people of Manipur were entitled to the same privileges and protection of law as the citizens in the rest of the country, he said. ''What we need is lasting peace and harmony.'' Dr Singh said the UPA government was committed to respecting the sentiments of the people of the state. A country like India with its immense diversity in languages, customs, beliefs, and faiths provided enough scope for pluralism'' he asserted.

He announced that the Regional Institute of Medical Sciences, Imphal, would be upgraded to the status of AIIMS, New Delhi, and a fund of Rs 240 crore sanctioned for the purpose. The RIMS will be transferred to the union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.

The Prime Minister also laid the foundation stones for the National Academy of Sports, a convention centre and the Manipur Institute of Technology in Kangla near here.

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