Amit Shah calls for police reform and regional development in NE

Agartala

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Saturday emphasized the need for a shift in the police force's approach in the northeast, following the resolution of decades-long insurgency. Addressing the 72nd plenary of the North Eastern Council (NEC) in Shillong, Shah highlighted that peace accords signed under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership over the past decade have led to the surrender of 9,000 militants.

“The police fought insurgency for 40 years. Now, with peace restored, the focus should shift to ensuring justice within three years of filing FIRs,” he said.

Shah also noted major strides in connectivity, with ₹81,000 crore invested in railways and ₹41,000 crore in roads across the region. He praised PM Modi’s efforts in accelerating development, citing 700 overnight visits by Union ministers to the northeastern states.

The home minister stressed improving rural livelihoods through vegetable farming and increased production of milk, eggs, and meat. He urged northeastern chief ministers to collaborate with the National Organic Corporation Ltd for promoting organic farming and exporting products.

Shah highlighted the strategic importance of land boundary agreements with Bangladesh, stating they would transform the region's investment potential. However, he called for stronger measures to combat narcotics smuggling.

The event, attended by DoNER Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia, governors, and chief ministers of all eight northeastern states, underscored the NEC's commitment to the region's economic and social development.