Home Minister P. Chidambaram on Thursday said his ministry has proposed amendments to the controversial Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA) but these could be effected only after consultations with all concerned.
He ruled out division of Manipur as demanded by some Naga groups on the
ground that pluralistic character of states cannot be wished away, but said efforts are on to ensure “honour, dignity and equal rights” of the Nagas within the Constitution.
Replying to a calling attention motion moved by BJP’s Bijoya Chakravorty in the Lok Sabha on the economic blockade enforced by Naga groups in Manipur, Chidambaram said the government will not spare any effort to ensure adequate supply of essential commodities.
On the situation in Manipur, he said violence this year was the lowest in a decade, which is an “achievement” of the UPA government.
Leader of Opposition Sushma Swaraj asked the government to specify what it intended to do and not what it had done . She also contended that neither the Home Minister nor his deputy had visited Manipur during the 67 days of blockade. Chidambaram said Home Secretary G.K. Pillai had toured the state for two days and Centre’s interlocutor also met the CM.