Asking north-eastern states to develop a proactive police force rather than relying on Central security forces, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on Monday said situation in Assam, Manipur and Nagaland remains "problematic and worrisome".
"There is need in the north east for more emphasis on pro-active state police forces rather than exclusive reliance
on Central Paramilitary Forces and Army. The resources for policing need to be enhanced substantially," Singh said.
He said Assam and Manipur account for "disproportionately" large number of violent incidents reported from the area with the latter's share being as high as 30 per cent.
"Manipur has increased the number of sanctioned posts at the police station level but a large number of them remain
unfilled," the Prime Minister said addressing the Chief Ministers' Conference on internal security in New Delhi.
Noting that Manipur is plagued by a large number of militant outfits, he said, appropriate mechanisms were needed
for increased participation of people in developmental work.
Singh said all the states in the north east would do well to ensure transparency in the recruitment of police and ensure
representation of all groups and communities in the force.
Singh said all the states in the north east would do well to ensure transparency in the recruitment of police and ensure
representation of all groups and communities in the force.
He asked the north eastern states to pay attention to implementation of infrastructure projects.
Singh said Rs 750 crore have been sanctioned to Assam for development of Bodo areas but utilisation of these funds was unsatisfactory and was concerned over delay in resettlement and rehabilitation of those hit by Bodo violence.