Insurgency-hit Indian states seeks peace talks with rebels

The call came as India celebrated its national Republic Day holiday.

"Militant groups should shun the path of violence and join the mainstream by holding peace talks with the government," Assam state Governor Ajai Singh said in his Republic Day speech. "Our doors are open for negotiations with any insurgent groups." The offer was echoed by M.M. Jacob, governor of neighbouring Meghalaya state, as well as the states of Tripura, Manipur and Arunachal Pradesh.

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"Violence and bloodshed are no answer to solving any of the region's grievances and only through talks could all such problems be resolved," Jacob told celebrations marking Republic Day.

More than 50,000 people have died in rebel-related violence in the northeast since India's independence in 1947. There are more than 30 rebel groups who say New Delhi is exploiting the vast region's natural resources and are battling for greater autonomy or independence.

There was no immediate comment from rebel groups.

The states have made peace overtures before to the rebels but have always been rebuffed.

Government officials, however, say now the rebel groups may be more inclined to seek a peaceful solution in light of a drive by neighbouring Bhutan to expel from its soil Indian rebels who have been staging attacks on Indian targets.