The Prime Minister’s statement that came while replying to the President’s address in the Lok Sabha, assumes significance in face of the ongoing peace dialogue with several militant outfits including NSCN (I-M), which are demanding sovereignty.
The Naga militant outfit has come under attack of rival militant outfits for allegedly dropping the prime demand. Interestingly, in the President’s debate a Congress MP from Manipur opposed the demand of the I-M for integration of Naga inhabited areas.
“The security forces have achieved several notable successes of late. While we are determined to take firm action, we are ready to talk to any group that abjures violence unconditionally and agrees to abide by the due constitutional process,” said Dr Singh.
The reiteration of the known stand of the Centre that it was willing to talk to any group that abjures violence may also be a signal to a section of ULFA leaders, who are currently in government custody. Dr Singh though did not name any outfit but merely stated Centre’s position.
Significantly the Prime Minister praised Dhaka’s action to end the activities of the militants. “The Government of Bangladesh has reassured us that they will not allow their territory to be used for activities inimical to India. We have welcomed some of the steps they have recently taken in this direction,” he said.
On Bangladesh, the Prime Minister said India has taken several steps to diversify and broad base its relations with Dhaka.
A major milestone was the visit of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to India in January. “During that visit we put in place a comprehensive framework of cooperation for development of our ties, which includes a renewed commitment by both sides to actively cooperate on security issues,” he said.
“We have provided a line of credit of US dollars 1 billion for a range of projects in Bangladesh, which we intend to follow up vigorously.
Without referring to the controversies surrounding China, Dr Singh said the country is an important neighbor, with whom India has a comprehensive and multi-sectoral relationship. But Dr Singh observed that resolution of the boundary issue might take time.
“We are both committed at the highest level to maintain peace and tranquility on the border, pending the resolution of the border question. This is a complex matter, which will take time to resolve,” he opined.
“We wish to build upon the achievements so far so as to create a partnership that is mutually beneficial. We are convinced that good relations with China are in the interests of both countries and will contribute to the peace, security and stability not only of the Asia-Pacific region but also of the world,” he said.
Meanwhile, Dr Thokchom Meinya MP representing Inner Manipur participating in the discussion in Lok Sabha said that while they encourage the on-going effort of the Union Government to find a negotiated settlement of the vexed Naga issues, at the earliest. But it should not be at the cost of the territorial integrity of Manipur and other States.
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