Presiding Officers for strong action against terrorism

Chandigarh, Sep 22 (UNI) The 73rd Conference of the Presiding Officers of Legislative Bodies today passed a resolution condemning all acts of terrorism and calling for strong and united action on the part of the Central and state governments to eliminate it.

Referring to the incidents of terrorism in different parts of the country, the delegates suggested the enactment of stringent laws to deal with the menace of terrorism.

The Conference urged upon the Central and the state governments to effectively coordinate their efforts and efficiently utilise their resources and also take steps to enact appropriate laws to eliminate the scourge of terrorism.

The delegates expressed serious concern at easy availability and use of sophisticated weapons and material to the terrorists.

Earlier, taking part in the discussion, Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman K Rahman Khan said terrorism by its very nature was undemocratic and an antithesis to dialogue. To combat this menace, the role of legislature was of paramount importance.

''The Legislature is empowered to provide effective oversight of the executive's measures to contain terrorism and make counter terrorism legislations and it is for this reason that legislature is the prime target of terrorist attacks,'' he said.

The foundation of our democracy was too strong to be shaken by such dastardly acts, said Mr Khan.

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