Manipur will be free of security forces when the violence in the state stops, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, who is on a two-day visit to the state, said on Saturday.
Addressing the ninth convocation ceremony of the Manipur University in Imphal, he said violence, militancy and terrorism offered no solution to the problems faced by the people. "That was my message to the people of Kashmir. That is my message to the people of Manipur," he said.
"While it is unfortunate that the brave men of our armed forces have on one occasion become the object of public
resentment because of the unacceptable behaviour of a few, we must remember that they are here to uphold the rule of law. I assure you that the rule of law will always prevail, whoever the law breaker," Singh said hinting at the alleged rape and killing of Manorama Devi by Assam Rifles personnel.
The incident had sparked off widespread violent protests in the state against the controversial Armed Forces
(Special Powers) Act. The Act has since been withdrawn from Imphal municipal areas. The Centre also set up a five-member committee headed by former Supreme Court judge Jeevan Reddy to review it.
On concerns being raised regarding the AFSPA, the Prime Minister said while he sympathised with the legitimate aspirations of the people, there were also imperatives of national security.
The review committee has been set up "to strike a balance between the two," he said adding "the committee will suggest checks and balances in the Act or replacing it with a more humane law."
"I have come to Manipur with another message. Apart from seeking peace and development, I want you all to work
with us to ensure the social and political empowerment of people," Singh said.
Singh announced the upgradation of Manipur University as a Central University.
He asked the youth of Manipur and other North Eastern states to start a vigorous campaign against Human Immunodeficiency Virus/Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome and fight poverty and diseases besides drug and narcotic trafficking.
Governor S S Sidhu, Chief Minister Ibobi Singh, Union ministers P R Kyndiah and Pritviraj Chauhan and All India Congress Committee general secretary Digvijay Singh were present on the occasion.
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