JOIN USThe State government on Saturday announced a week-long ceasefire from September 17 in anti-naxal operations to facilitate surrender of Maoists.
Addressing a press conference in Bangalore, Chief Minister Jagadish Shettar said the ceasefire was the government’s response to feelers sent by Maoists that they desire to surrender. “Some Maoist groups have voluntarily come forward to surrender. As per our government’s surrender and rehabilitation policy for Maoists, we have to give them an opportunity to do so,” Shettar said.
However, he declined to spell out details on the number of naxals who had come forward to surrender. The ceasefire would take effect at 6 am on September 17 and would be in force till 6 pm on September 23, the chief minister said.
Maoists are active in Western Ghats belt in the State, particulary in Dakshina Kannada, Udupi and Chikmagalur districts. Earlier this month, a Maoist was shot dead during combing operations launched by the Anti-Naxal Force (ANF) in Baginamale-Cheru reserve forest area near Subramanya.
Shettar said the government will take steps to bring back surrendered Maoists to the mainstream and lead a normal life. “We also listen to their grievances and take remedial measures. Steps will be taken to improve the infrastructure and basic amenities in areas which require urgent attention. Everything will be done within the legal framework and as per the surrender policy,” the chief minister said.
The policy provides for an immediate loan of Rs 2 lakh, a stipend of Rs 2,000 per month for three years, vocational training and incentives for surrender of weapons, officials said. They will also be eligible to get land and a house from the State government under Aasare scheme.