Wednesday, July 27 2005 16:59 Hrs (IST) - World Time -

New Delhi: Concerned over the growing menace of terrorism in the country, the BJP (Bharatiya Janata Party) in Rajya Sabha today (July 27, 2005) demanded a White Paper on illegal immigration and repeal of the IMDT Act.

Initiating a discussion on "increasing incidents of cross-border terrorism and terrorist acts in the country, in particular the recent attack in Ayodhya, Leader of the Opposition Jaswant Singh demanded re-introduction of POTA (Prevention of Terrorism Act), even if by any other name, to tackle the scourge.

He said the Ayodhya incident was similar to the terror strikes on religious places in Gujarat and other States.

The former External Affairs Minister said the Centre should undertake national registration of citizens and issue multipurpose Identity Cards to all to check infiltration.

He demanded a White Paper on illegal immigration and on activities of PWG, Maoists and Left extremists.

Singh charged the Government with going slow on repealing the Illegal Immigration (Determination by Tribunal) Act, 1983, despite the Supreme Court order in this regard.

He said it was not proper to set up a Group of Ministers to deal with the issue.

Singh expressed concern over extremist activities emanating from Bangladesh.

Charging the Congress with clinging to power in Andhra Pradesh by giving concessions to naxalites, he said the adverse fallout of not dealing firmly with the Left extremism was already visible.