Prime Minister Manmohan Singh here on Friday called upon the militant groups of the north-eastern states to join the democratic process for all-round development of Assam.
Addressing the platinum jubilee celebrations of the Assam Legislative Assembly, Dr Singh said, “There is a general realisation today that violence provides no answers and that diverse groups can fulfil their aspirations only through engagement in the democratic processes.” In an obvious reference to Ulfa hardliners who have called for a 12-hour Assam bandh to oppose the Prime Minister’s Assam visit on Friday, Dr Singh said, “I am sure that the few insurgent groups that continue to remain outside the democratic process will understand the sentiments of the people of Assam and come forward to create an atmosphere that is conducive for accelerating the pace of social and economic development in this great beautiful state of our Republic.”
Responding to the appeal of Assam chief minister Tarun Gogoi to take up issues with Burma, which has become a safe sanctuary for insurgent groups, Dr Singh said, “In recent years, we have taken new initiatives to strengthen our relations with Bangladesh and Burma.”
He said, “Next month, I am scheduled to visit Burma. I will discuss with the leadership there how we can increase opportunities for expansion of trade, economic cooperation and connectivity to the larger Asean region.” He, however, lauded the efforts of the Assam government in restoring peace and stability in the state.