Indian Home Minister warns of action against N E militants

Guwahati, Jan 2 (PTI) In a tough message against the
backdrop of New Year-day serial blasts, Indian Home Minister P
Chidambaram Friday said security forces will deal "decisively"
with banned outfits in the north east which threaten peace
and integrity of India but felt talks could be held with
United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA) if it gave up
sovereignty demand.

"The leaders of banned organisations if they are
listening as I speak now or read it in tomorrow's newspapers
or watch television later in the day, they must get this clear
message that security forces will deal decisively with the
members of these banned organisations who threaten peace and
integrity of India," he said.

Addressing a press conference here after a review
meeting with Assam Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi, who also chairs
the Unified Command in the north east, Chidambaram said "no
quarter would be given to militants."

Condemning yesterday's blasts here in which five
people were killed and over 50 injured, he said police knew
who were behind them and expressed confidence that Assam
police would capture them.

The Home Minister regretted that two-three top
leaders of the banned groups of the north east were taking
shelter in Bangladesh and saw the "positive" statement
emanating from the prime minister-to be on dealing with them.

On the ULFA, he said, "they have to drop their
sovereignty demand. I have seen a change in the stance of its
`a' and `c' companies (of the 28th battalion).

"I am examining them. The broad policy is that talks
are held with anyone who abjures violence and makes no claim
on sovereignty". PTI SB
SAK