Dimapur, January 09: The Union Minister for Defence AK Antony said the controversial Armed Forces Special Powers Act (1958), AFSPA, had to stay in the insurgency-infested North Eastern Region.

Addressing jawans here at the Rangapahar Army Cantonment today, the Union Minister however made it clear that he was not against the amendment of the Act.

But he narrated the heinous crime perpetrated on the helpless innocent civilians in Assam by militant ULFA in the last two days or so warranted the services of the army.

In such a situation, can anybody expect the best service from the army without such act (AFSPA), he asked.

Antony also said there had been relative peace in Nagaland following the ceasefire with the NSCN-IM over the last 10 years.

"We want a peaceful and lasting solution to the Naga issue.

Even while the negotiations are on, factional clashes between the separatist groups and other illegal activities in the State pose a challenge from time to time," he stated.

He however admitted, "Preserving and maintaining peace during ceasefire is a challenging and a difficult task." The Union Minister also said there had been drastic drop in the insurgency related violence in Nagaland during this ceasefire period and further disclosed that the Congress-led UPA Government at the Center was doing its best to resolve the Naga issue honorably and satisfactorily.

Asked about Indian army's stand on the operation against the North East militants having its bases in the Myanmar soil, Antony admitted the Indian army had already provided some military equipments to its counterparts in Myanmar to start operation against the North East militants hiding there.

He said there had been a marked improvement in the relationship between the two countries.

The Union Minister also said Manipur was badly affected by insurgency.

However, the situation was now improving due to the Indian army's "continued determination, bravery and hard work and the support and cooperation of the local people." "Due to these combined efforts, Government officials in Manipur are now able to do their work without fear," he stated adding, "A number of separatist groups agreed to sign the Suspension of Operation agreement and are now willing to help the Army." Antony also said assembly elections were being conducted in Manipur next month and holding of "peaceful elections" would be a "great boost" for carrying forward the peace process in the State.

The Union Minister was accompanied by Chief of Army Staff General JJ Singh, Army Top brass, Defense Secretary, etc.

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