Chidambaram to review situation in Nagaland

In his maiden visit to Nagaland after taking charge of the union home ministry, P Chidambaram will this afternoon review law and order situation in the state with Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio, top police and security officials.

After reviewing law and order in Manipur at Imphal, he will arrive at Dimapur in the afternoon and meet the chief minister and his cabinet colleagues at Chumukedima police complex, on the outskirts of the commercial town of Dimapur.

The home minister will hold another review meeting with Inspector General of Assam Rifles, DGP Nagaland, DIG CRPF and others in the police complex, the sources said.

Chidambaram's visit to Nagaland assumes significance in view of his recent assertion that Naga peace talks would continue but cease-fire ground rules be enforced strictly to maintain congenial atmosphere in the state.

Last week Chidambaram reportedly briefed the Centre's interlocutor for Naga talks K Padmanabhaiah to carry forward the peace talks with NSCN(I-M).

The peace dialogue virtually reached a stalemate after last year's talks to declare extension of cease-fire indefinitely with both sides expressing commitment to carry forwards the negotiations to end the protracted Naga political conflict.

Both Nagaland chief minister and opposition Congress have urged the centre to expedite the peace talks.