JOIN USOdisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on Wednesday appealed to Maoists to give up arms even as the red rebels observed a Bharat bundh to protest against the Centre’s attempt to implement the National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC).
“Today when there is a bundh in different states, including several parts of Odisha, I appeal my young brothers and sisters to give up the path of violence and return to the mainstream. They should return to their homes and enjoy the developmental works taken up by the government in tribal areas. They should also join hands with the government in developmental activities,” Patnaik said while talking to newspersons here.
The chief minister’s statement came as a surprise since he was in a combative mood in dealing with the Maoists just a few days back. “Those responsible for these anti-national acts would be dealt with strongly,” Patnaik had said.
On Tuesday, Home Secretary U N Behera had indicated that the state government would soon launch a major offensive against the Left wing extremists. “All attempt to disrupt public order would be dealt with firmly,” he had said.