India's northeast yet to recover from Partition: Sangma

Meghalaya Chief Minister Mukul Sangma Monday said India's northeast is yet to fully recover from the ill-effects of Partition in terms of dislocation of trade and commercial ties, disruption of access to nearby markets, and breakdown in connectivity.

"Fresh infrastructure to restore connectivity with the rest of the country is still not fully in place. Inter-regional and intra-regional connectivity remains a major constraint even now," Sangma said while presenting a vote of thanks after the speech of President Pranab Mukherjee, who is making his maiden visit to Meghalaya.

Noting Meghalaya has huge potential in tourism, horticulture, floriculture, but these sectors has remained untapped as yet due to dislocation of trade and commercial ties, he said that restoration of trade and commercial links with neighbouring countries is of prime importance for Meghalaya and investments in infrastructure and connectivity acquire the foremost priority.

On the ongoing 36-hour shutdown called by the outlawed Hynniewtrep National Liberation Council to protest Mukherjee's visit to the state, Sangma said: "It is unfortunate that because of the bandh call given by a proscribed unlawful outfit, the people have been prevented from participating in it in a befitting manner."

"However, it is also very encouraging that some enlightened civil society groups have come out openly defying the call and organised a public rally and a music concert welcoming your (Mukherjee) visit."