Centre to review Naga ceasefire issues: Advani

By Our Special Correspondent

NEW DELHI, JUNE 23. The Centre will review the issues arising out of the ongoing ceasefire with the NSCN(I-M) which was extended on June 14 beyond Nagaland ``without territorial limits'' in the nort-heastern region.

Announcing the Government response after a three-hourmeeting with political leaders from Manipur at the North Block here today, the Union Home Minister, Mr. L.K. Advani, said the brief formulation of ``review of various issues arising out of the ceasefire'' was agreed upon by the leaders who attended today's meeting.

Mr. Advani said the leaders exchanged ``free and frank views'' with the Government. ``Everyone spoke and gave vent to his feelings and also gave his assessment of the situation in Manipur in a candid manner. All of them invariably gave constructive suggestions,'' he said. The meeting was convened at the initiative of the Home Minister as many of the legislators who had earlier met the State Governor, Mr. Ved Marwah, on June 21 at Imphal also wanted to be heard in New Delhi.

The thrust of today's meeting was decided last night at a high- level meeting, presided over by the Prime Minister, Mr. Atal Behari Vajpayee. It was felt that the Centre would not go back on the central thrust of the ceasefire extension. Describing today's meeting as being ``extremely fruitful'', Mr. Advani said some of the suggestions included interaction with student bodies and political parties which did not have representation in Parliament and State Assembly. ``All such suggestions have been taken note of and will be acted upon.'' The joint representation given by the leaders from Manipur would be considered, he added.

``There is urgent need to remove the misgivings in the minds of people and assure them of the Government's determination of not disturbing the geographical boundaries of northeastern States,'' he told the leaders.

Later, the Home Secretary, Mr. Kamal Pande, told reporters that the situation in Manipur during the past few days was also discussed and the need to normalise the situation was stressed. He said Mr. Advani stressed the desirability of a holistic approach to the situation as any conclusion would have an effect in other neighbouring States apart from Manipur.

He said Mr. Advani appreciated the constructive and balanced approach of the participants despite immense pressure on them.

Efforts would be made to have further dialogue with the agitating groups. On behalf of the political leaders, Dr. L. Chandramani Singh, leader of the MSCP and former Deputy Chief Minister, submitted a joint memorandum to the Home Minister, seeking a review of the ``Ceasefire Agreement'' and withdrawal of the clause ``without territorial limits.''

Today's meeting was attended by Mr. Th. Chaoba Singh, Minister of State for Food Processing, Mr. Holkhomang Haokip, Lok Sabha member, Mr. W. Angou Singh, Rajya Sabha member, Mr. Radhabinod Koijam and Mr. Rishang Keishing, both former Chief Ministers, Dr. L. Chandramani Singh, Dr. K.H.L. Singh, Mr. O. Joy Singh, Mr. S. Dhananjoy Singh and Mr. R.K. Dorendra Singh, all MLAs.

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