Addressing a press conference, Vajpayee said the Centre could give similar assistance to Madhya Pradesh if the State Government came up with concrete proposals.

He, however, said the Centre was bound by the recommendations of the Ninth Finance Commission on providing assistance in cases of natural calamities.

A meeting of chief ministers would be held soon to discuss the issue, he said, and hoped something may be given to Madhya Pradesh after that.

The PM said if need be, laws could be amended ``and implemented stringently'' to strengthen the fight against corruption. He said there was need to tighten up the functioning of investigative agencies. Vajpayee said speedy disposal of cases by courts could also be of help.