Imphal, August 28: Expressing deep shock at the deteriorating law and order situation in Manipur due to AFSPA 1958 withdrawal agitations two former Prime Ministers and former Speaker of the Lok Sabha have intimated to the Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on need to review application of the Act.

In a press statement issued jointly to the press by former PMs IK Gujral and Chandrasekhar and former Lok Sabha Speaker PA Sangma, the three leaders observed that proposed visit of the Home Minister Shivraj Patil on September5 to assess the Manipur situation need to be undertaken at the earliest.

In his intimation to Manmohan, the former PM Chandrasekhar stated that "alleged rape and killing of Thangjam Manorama Devi by the Assam Rifles personnel is only the outcome of a more deep seated and long standing malaise which, indeed is the unconscionable application of the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act 1958".This law is brazen negation of crucial fundamental freedoms and human rights guaranteed under the Constitution.

It has also been held to be grossly inconsistent with the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, said Chandrasekhar.

While regretting that priority is not being accorded to discuss the Manipur issue in the Lok Sabha, the former PM expressed concern to Manmohan of the State people getting increasingly alienated which could ultimately have serious implications on the integrity of the country.

To prevent recurrence of similar problems in Manipur, the Prime Minister was also urged to facilitate commencement of dialogues with all the groups to seek solution to present status of turmoil immediately.

The three national figures also presented a note entitled "Manipur Situation, 2004, Need for Lasting Solution" to Manmohan to necessary perusal and requisite measure, added the joint statement.

Meanwhile, MLA I Hemochandra informed that on behalf of the All Political Parties Forum, five Federal Party of Manipur MLAs currently at the national capital have called on several prominent leaders of the opposition National Democratic Alliance in the last few days to sensitize them on the prevailing situation in Manipur.

The Union Home Minister Shivraj Patil has also consented to meet the five MLAs - M Nillachandra, S Ibohal, S Gopal, S Chandra and I Hemochandra - ahead of his proposed September 5 visit to Manipur, the MLA added.

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