The Centre has accepted the recommendations of the Bezbaruah committee which was set up to look into the concerns of people hailing from North Eastern Region living in different parts of the country. Briefing reporters in New Delhi this morning, Home Minister Rajnath Singh said, those from north east will be provided legal assistance by the Delhi Legal State Services Authority. He said, a panel of seven lawyers have been constituted which has five women member. The Home Minister said, Delhi government will provide compensation and financial assistance to the victims of violence. He informed that the Delhi police will recruit 20 police personnel from each Northeastern State to increase their representation in the force. He said, police exchange programs with the north eastern state police will also be initiated. Cases related to the people of the region will be put before the fast track courts in national capital for speedy justice. He said, some amendments in Indian Penal Code recommended by the committee are under consideration of the government.
In reply to a question whether the acceptance of recommendation has any bearing on the upcoming Assembly elections where people from north eastern states in sizable numbers, the Minister said, it has no connection with the elections. It has been done keeping in view the time frame prescribed for the committee for implementing immediate recommendations. He said, Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region is working on a proposal for constructing hostels in JNU and four colleges of Delhi University for the students. The special helpline number 1093 meant to address their concerns is being synchronized with police helpline number 100. Syllabus at different levels will be revised to incorporate the history of north east and the contribution of people of the region in freedom struggle.
The Bezbaruah committee was constituted under the chairmanship of M P Bezbaruah in February this year. In its report submitted to the Home Ministry in July, the committee had recommended enacting a new law to deal with the rising crimes against people of this region. Any offence against them should be made cognizable and non-bailable. It said, investigation of the FIR should be completed in 60 days and the trail should be completed within 90 days.
