Date:09/12/2006 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2006/12/09/stories/2006120908301002.htm

Opinion - Letters to the Editor

Repeal the Act

As advocated by the editorial "Repeal the hated Act" (Dec. 4), the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act needs to go. The Act is probably the only reason why the Northeast ever figures in the media. The least the Centre can do for an already neglected region is to ensure that the AFSPA is repealed. Any other course would lead to a loss of people's faith in peaceful struggle and result in further insurgency.

Priya Narayanan,
Thrissur

The people of Manipur are caught in the crossfire between violence by insurgents and counter-insurgency operations. By countering violence with violence, the state is creating further insecurity among them. The Government must rethink its strategy to counter terrorism. Treating people with dignity, and ushering in real development will go a long way in stemming the frustration and alienation among the youth who join the ranks of insurgents. Prime Minister Manmohan Singh's reluctance to repeal the AFPSA means that the right to life of the people of Manipur is still under threat. Irom Sharmila has shown us that it is possible to make a point without resorting to violence. Her unflinching courage should jolt us all out of apathy.

Deepti Priya Mehrotra,
New Delhi