Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh has appealed on Saturday the people of Manipur to shun the path of violence and let their demands be articulated through Constitutional means.

Speaking at a public meeting at Kangla in Imphal this afternoon Dr. Singh said that a conducive environment has to be created so that the tremendous developmental potential of Manipur and talents of Manipuris can be channelized into productive and creative pursuits. He expressed hope that the state will continue its way forward to eliminate violence and strengthen the roots of democracy.

Dr. Manmohan Singh further said that there is no consultation for creation of Naga-Supra State Body by the Centre as reported in the media. He said that the territorial integrity of Manipur is at the prime concern of his government.

Regarding Manipur Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh’s request for granting a financial package of 6000 crores of rupees to the state, the Prime Minister said that the special needs of Manipur will be duly taken care of in the 12th Plan.

Speaking on the occasion, UPA Chairperson Sonia Gandhi said that problems can only be resolved through dialogue. She said that abjuring the gun culture and joining the mainstream to strengthen the parliamentary democracy is the only better and brighter future of Manipur.

Dr. Manmohan Singh and Mrs. Gandhi, earlier, inaugurated the newly constructed buildings of the Manipur Legislative Assembly, High Court, City Convention Centre, Manipur Film Development Corporation Auditorium and Inter-State Bus Terminus at Imphal on Saturday.