India firm in its resolve to fight extremism, terrorism: PM

Prime Minister Manmohan Singh today said that India is firm in its resolve to root out all forms of extremism and terrorism from the country, and called upon the people to fight it each in our own way.

New Delhi, Aug 15 : Prime Minister Manmohan Singh today said that India is firm in its resolve to root out all forms of extremism and terrorism from the country, and called upon the people to fight it "each in our own way."

Addressing the nation from the ramparts of the Red Fort on the occasion of the country's 61st independence celebrations, Singh said: "Our strength lies in our unity in diversity.

"Those who profess hatred and extremism, those who spread the virus of communalism and those who believe in violence and terrorism have no place in our society. We must all fight these anti-democratic, anti-social and anti-national forces, each in our own way, in our daily lives."

Singh said: "We must develop the spirit of good neighbourliness with all people, irrespective of caste, creed or language.

"India wants to have good relations with all the countries of the world. Big and small. Countries of the East and the West, the North and the South," he added.

Pointing out that the country today enjoys good relations with all major powers and all developing countries, he said: "We have emerged as a bridge between the many extremes of the world. India will always be a nation bridging the many global divides."

He went on to say that "we in India want peace and the best of relations with all of them," adding, "I sincerely believe that in the prosperity and well-being of our neighbours lies the key to our own security and progress."

The Prime Minister also said the government would ensure peace and prosperity in Jammu and Kashmir and the North East Region.

"This is our solemn commitment," he said.

ANI