PM expresses concern over killings of northeast journalists

New Delhi, Nov 24 (IANS) Prime Minister Manmohan Singh has expressed 'grave concern' over the recent killings of two journalists in Assam and Manipur.

'The prime minister has spoken to the chief ministers of both the states, advising them to take immediate steps for prompt and fair investigations into the killings,' an official statement Monday said.

'The prime minister also asked the chief ministers to take adequate measures to ensure the security and safety of all journalists and newsmen in their states,' the statement added.

Unidentified gunmen Saturday shot journalist Jagajit Saikia in Kokrajhar town in Assam. Earlier in the week, assailants gunned down sub-editor Konsam Rishikanta in Imphal.