Chidambaram renews talks with rebels

Home Minister P Chidambaram today urged militant groups in the northeast to come forward for talks and resolve their demands.

Home Minister P Chidambaram on Tuesday urged militant groups in the northeast to come forward for talks and resolve their demands.

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"In the last two years, the central government has taken various steps to welcome any group willing to give up arms and live in peace. Violence has no place in a democracy," Chidambaram said at the passing out parade of the 36th batch at the North Eastern Police Academy (NEPA) in Umsaw.

"I am happy to report that almost all groups and organisations are in talks with government appointed interlocutors. I believe that settlements are within our reach," the minister added.

Chidambaram, who was on a maiden visit to the academy, said: "We have held out our hand of friendship to every group in this part of the country.

"Each one in the northeast is proud of his identity. We must respect that identity. We must also respect that a modern society can be based on pluralism and diversity where each one respects each other's identity and heritage," he said.

He added: "we must also learn to live together, work together, build together and prosper together."

The northeast is home to about 30-odd rebel groups with demands ranging from secession to greater autonomy.