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"Naxal violence has declined"

Special Correspondent

"Combined efforts of State and Centre have shown some level of containment"

NEW DELHI: Naxal violence in the country has declined by 6.15 per cent from 1,608 incidents in 2005 to 1,509 in 2006, Union Home Minister Shivraj Patil said on Wednesday in the Lok Sabha while making a suo moto statement on the assassination of Jharkhand Mukti Morcha member Sunil Kumar Mahato.

After giving details about the attack on Mr. Mahato and his bodyguards, Mr. Patil said: "While the Naxal problem in the country is of serious nature, combined efforts of the State and Central Governments have shown some level of containment." In particular, he mentioned Andhra Pradesh as one of the States which has achieved "note-worthy success" in controlling the problem. However, according to Mr. Patil, "we need greater concerted and cooperative efforts between the States , as well as between the Centre and the States to achieve more acceptable results.

We expect that the motivation and dedication of the State police, coupled with financial, technical support which includes equipment and manpower support from Government of India along with developmental programmes in Naxal affected areas will have a significant impact on this problem."

On the attack on Mr. Mahato, the Minister said the attack on Mr. Mahato was a planned move. The Naxalite group — which included women — suddenly overpowered the bodyguards, snatched their weapons and fired at the MP and his bodyguards. The Naxals took away their rifles and ammunition, and, according to initial reports, the assailants raised pro-Naxalite slogans after the killings.

As for the assistance given to Jharkhand to tackle the Naxal problem, Mr. Patil said under the Police Modernisation Scheme, Rs. 182.72 crore has been provided to the State over the last six years. During the current year, a Special Grant of Rs. 15 crore is being given to the State for purchase of telecommunication, weaponry and de-mining equipment.

Besides, Jharkhand has been provided Rs. 20.92 core under the Security Related Expenditure Scheme till date, he said.

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