AFSPA has decreased violence in NE: PM

New Delhi, Sep 14: As the talks continue on Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA) in capital, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh said, the situation in the North-East has improved with the act though there were some areas of concern.

In Jammu and Kashmir and North-East the armed forces have stood shoulder-to-shoulder with the civil authority to protect the nation"s vital interests, he said.

He further said citing the example of the Naga-Meitei division in Manipur,and North Cachar Hills which was due to identity assertion.

“In other areas of the North Eastern part of our country, we need to consolidate the gains of the past while at the same time ensuring that new problems do not arise and it can be controlled when they do," he had said.

Regarding the naxals entry into region he said, “We will do all that is necessary to protect each and every citizen of our country, and deal firmly with those who resort to violence."

The other integral part of the defence preparedness is border infrastructure. This involves not just our land borders but also ensuring appropriate coastal security. Several measures have been taken and are underway and the ministers should involve co-operatively with the plans, he said.

For more development and fast growth in the region the top officials should work hand in hand without any cause, he added.

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