Annual Report 1978- 1979 (India Ministry of Home Affairs)

Abstract

“The current year witnessed the final phase of the process started in the preceding year of restoring civil liberties. MISA was repealed with effect from 3rd August, 1978 and persons still in detention under MISA were released. 2568 Naxalites who agreed to abjure violence were released by State Governments'. The Government have been concerned over the outbreak of communal violence and the continuance of atrocities against Harijans. In an effort to evolve a national consensus on the84' aspects, in particular of the law and order problem; the Prime Minister initiated a series of meetings with the Leaders of the Opposition Parties in Parliament and Chief Ministers. An important outcome of one such conference held in December, 1978 was the setting up of a Committee under the-Chairmanship of the Deputy Prime Minister (Defence) to evolve measures for promoting communal harmony and national integration.”