Imphal, December 04: To curb insurgency movement in the North East region by imposing the infamous Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act 1958, which has been accepted as a symbol of oppression and an instrument for wanton violation of human rights, in the Northeastern States is almost out of question.

Rather the draconian Act has aggravated the problem of insurgency in the region, observed the National president of Nationalist Youth Congress Conrad Sangma.

Speaking to reporters today, Sangma remarked that the insurgency movement in the North East including Manipur was not a separatist movement but a movement demanding socio-economic development in the region.

In response, the Govt of India imposed AFSPA which has become an instrument to murder and torture innocent civilians.

Declaring that NCP is against such anti-national policy of the Union Government, Conrad Sangma conveyed NCP's firm belief that the peace can be restored only when there is development.

Reacting to the statement of Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh to amend certain clauses of AFSPA contrary to the long standing demand of the people to repeal the Act in toto, he urged for immediate repeal of the draconian Act.

Casting serious doubt against the State Government at its failure to provide essential commodities at reasonable rates to the people, Sangma lamented the failure of the Union Government to implement the North East policy basically framed for the welfare of the region.

As such, the people of the State ought to teach the Congress party a befitting lesson in the forthcoming elections, he asserted.

The press meet was also participated by NCP Manipur Pradesh president Radhabinod Koijam.

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