Visakhapatnam, April 17 (IANS): The Communist Party of India-Marxist has demanded that the central government immediately abandon any move to withdraw the special category status to the northeastern states and repeal Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA).

In a resolution passed on Friday at the ongoing 21st Congress here, the party expressed its deep concern over the continuing state of underdevelopment and backwardness in the northeastern region.

The party feels that any move to drop special category status will have a disastrous impact on the interests of the region and its people.

It condemned the use of the draconian AFSPA. "This Act has been used for extra judicial killings and assaults on ordinary citizens, including women and children."

The party demanded urgent steps to ensure the development of vital infrastructure and connectivity for the region.

Terming as shocking the racial attacks on people from northeast residing in other parts of India, the CPI-M said they would intensify feeling of alienation.

It urged the government take appropriate steps to protect the rights of the people of the North-East in all parts of the country.