CM to stress on joint N-E efforts to tackle militancy

SHILLONG: With states in the North East region facing the scourge of militancy, a joint effort by all the North Eastern states and the Centre to address the issue of internal security will be highlighted by Meghalaya Chief Minister Mukul Sangma during the security-related meeting to be attended by all the Chief Ministers of the Northeastern states on Saturday and Sunday in Guwahati.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will chair the meeting on internal security.
Speaking to reporters on Friday, the Chief Minister said there was a need to address the law and order situation holistically as militancy in one area like Garo Hills has ramifications in the entire Northeast.
To a question, the Chief Minister said that Bangladesh was still supportive in addressing the concerns of the Northeastern states on the hide outs of the militant groups in the neighbouring country.
“However, there is a need for a strong and aggressive geo political approach with the neighbouring countries and people to people contact to improve the socio-economic relations which will result in reducing tension in the Northeast,” Sangma said.
Sangma also admitted to large-scale smuggling of arms and explosives to several parts of the North East including Garo Hills which needs to be jointly addressed by the Centre and all the North Eastern states.