PM calls upon ultras in Assam to engage in dialogue

Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh on Friday said that the "beautiful and great" state of Assam has the potential to become the engine of growth for the entire northeastern region of the country. Dr Singh also called upon the "few insurgent groups that still remain outside the democratic process to come forward to resolve their problem by engaging themselves in a dialogue process with the government."

Addressing the platinum jubilee celebration of the Assam legislative assembly, which came into being on April 7, 1937, in Guwahati, Dr Singh said the social peace and political stability that had been achieved in Assam during the last ten years of consecutive Congress governments headed by Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi was vital in putting Assam on the path of sustained social and economic development. 

"It has been proved that violence provides no answer to any problem. Diverse groups can solve their problems only through engagement in dialogue," Dr Singh said. He said the new initiatives taken by the government of India to strengthen ties with neighbouring Bangladesh and Myanmar would benefit all the northeastern states.

"Last year I went to Bangladesh and we initiated a number of new steps to embolden our ties in various sectors. I am going to Myanmar next month and intend to explore ways with the Myanmar government to increase bilateral cooperation in trade, economy and connectivity with ASEAN countries. Assam and other northeastern states should play a leading role in our efforts to look East. Better connectivity with neighbours will pave ways for increased commerce and employment opportunities," the prime minister said.

"As we are celebrating the 75 years of this great institution (Assam assembly), we should remember that there are many nations that are just waking up to the democratic system. We as the largest democracy in the world stand firmly for freedom and constitutional governments," he added.

The prime minister called upon the legislators of the country to work "honestly, effectively and provide capable leadership to the people" in the true spirit of democracy.
Dr Singh said he was happy that he could come to his adopted state Assam in this week of Rongali Bihu celebrations and wished the people sustained peace, progress and prosperity.

"I and my family remain indebted to the people of Assam for their love, warmth and blessings over the years. I was born in a dusty corner of this sub-continent that is no longer part of India. I was rendered homeless, but it is Assam where I have finally found a home that has given me a sense of belonging," said Dr Singh who has represented Assam in the Rajya Sabha since 1991.

The PM also inaugurated a state-of-the-art facility at Dr B Barooah Cancer Institute immediately after his arrival in the city. The PM visited the state amid tight security in view of the 12-hour bandh called by the outlawed ULFA (anti-talks) on Friday.

Image: Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh at the state-of-the-art facility at the Dr Barooah Cancer Institute in Assam