New Delhi, August 17: Asking north-eastern states to develop a proactive police force rather than relying on Central security forces, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh Monday said the situation in Assam, Manipur and Nagaland remains “problematic and worrisome”.
“There is need in the Northeast 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 here.
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 Northeast 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.
–Agencies