NEW DELHI, Nov 7 � Stating that the Centre is still studying the Bezbaruah Committee Report, Union Minister of State for Home Affairs Kiren Rijiju said it might take over six months to a year for implementation of the report.
Rijiju said that Bezbaruah Committee Report itself says that it would take that much period for implementation. The Government of India is studying the report, which has suggested short and long term measures, he said.
Rijiju and Minister of State for DoNER, General (retd) VK Singh were present at the inauguration of the North East Festival �Connecting People, Celebrating Life� that got under way here this afternoon at the IGNCA ground.
The inaugural event saw the two felicitate medal-winning sportspersons from North East, including MC Mary Kom, Laishram Sarita Devi, Devendro Singh, Dipa Karmakar, Sanjita Khumukcham, Mirabai Chanu Saikhom, Shushila Likmabam, Chinglensana Kangujam, Kothajit Singh Khadangbam, Kalpana Thoudam, Th Chan Devi, P Sushila Devi and Yumnam Sanathoi Devi. They were handed over cash awards and plaque according to the North Eastern Council (NEC)�s scheme of honouring award winning sports personalities.
Addressing the function, Rijiju said that the government is committed to take action against any police officials who do not take any prompt action in complaint regarding racial discrimination.
Underlining the need to come out of the regional mindset, he said that the people of the region should also set example. Merely talking about potential would not be getting us anywhere,� he said.
Admitting that governments in the past have made mistakes, he blamed wrong policies adopted by previous regimes for the mess in the North East. �There has to be some course correction,� he said.
Rijiju, however, also faulted the people of the region. �Is it not a fact that people in the region are killing each other?� He referred to the recent inter-State boundary clashes between Assam and Nagaland forcing the Centre to rush Central forces.
Addressing the event, the DoNER Minister said that the people of the North East and its culture need to be understood. Asserting that the region has huge potential, he said that people are also realising their potential, as the region is opening up.
The four-day fest would showcase the traditional art crafts, music, food and rock bands of the region during the event.
