With security forces preparing to launch a multi-state coordinated offensive against Naxals, Home Minister P Chidambaram on Friday said they need to ensure that the poor and tribals do not suffer in the Centre's fight against Maoist violence.
"While you should be firm, decisive and unrelenting in dealing with those who indulge in violence, you should show a great degree of sensitivity, patience and maturity to the poor people, especially the tribals," Chidambaram said.
He was speaking at the 70th Raising Day celebrations of the Central Reserve Police Force that will be at the forefront of the anti-Naxal operation. Noting that the people of the country have the constitutional right to choose their leaders, he said, "As custodians of the Constitution, we have the moral, ethical and legal responsibility to ensure that the writ of the Constitution runs through the length and breadth of the country."
"The biggest challenge before you (CRPF personnel) is how well and successful you are able to reach out the tribal and the poor people and the marginalised," the minister said, adding the forces have to convince such people of their rights as a legitimate citizens of the country.
CRPF Director General A S Gill, who was also present at the function, said the training programme for the forces has been made more practical and field specific. He said more powers should be delegated to special director generals of the force for better coordination and performance output.
