Tripartite talks to boost regional progress in Assam

Guwahati, July 21 (ANI): At a high-level meeting held here on Tuesday, officials of the central and state governments, along with representatives from regional outfits, discussed several issues including ways to socio-economic development in the region.

Chaired by Navin Verma, Joint Secretary (North East) in the Home Ministry, the discussions were attended by several All Assam Students' Union (AASU) leaders.

Besides seeking durable solutions for achieving the twin goals of peace and progress in the conflict ridden region, the delegates also reviewed implementation of Clauses 6 and 7 of the historic 1985 Assam Accord.

Regional representatives highlighted the need for total reservation for locals in educational institutions and commercial enterprises.

They also called for eviction of illegal migrants, Bangladesh is in particular.he menace of rising separatist violence was also discussed, and an appeal went out to militant factions to quit their insurgent activities and surrender.

"They have to come forward. We have nothing to talk to them. There is no question of talking to any group. Groups that are already there, that is enough, we do not want new groups to come. They should surrender," said Verma.

As per provisions of Clause 6 of the Assam Accord, the Government is to provide special constitutional protection to the indigenous people of Assam.

The Centre had promised to take effective steps for the all-round economic development of Assam under provisions of Clause 7 of the accord.

The Assam Accord was signed between the Centre, the State Government and the AASU on August 15, 1985. (ANI)