Karnataka BJP Criticizes Congress Government for Lavish Treatment of Maoists
Click to start listening
Bengaluru, Jan 9 (NationPress) The Karnataka BJP has criticized the Congress-led government in the state for offering lavish treatment to Maoists and assisting in their surrender.
N. Ravikumar, a BJP MLC, stated, "If Maoists are genuinely surrendering in Karnataka and their issues are being addressed, that could be a positive development. However, is it appropriate for the Chief Minister to be involved in facilitating their surrender? How suitable is it for them to surrender at the CM's office?" he raised.
He also expressed worries about the involvement of the Chief Minister, Home Minister, and police officials, along with extensive publicity for the surrender initiative, questioning the appropriateness of this act by the Congress-led state administration.
"The Maoists could have surrendered directly to the Police department, but it was the Chief Minister and Home Minister who facilitated this process. This raises concerns," he added.
The MLC further questioned whether the state government had considered the sacrifices of martyred policemen and the safety of ordinary citizens.
Ravikumar challenged the rationale behind the state government offering a ‘package’ to the surrendered Maoists.
"Even if there is a necessity for providing livelihood support, is this the right approach? Will all charges against them be dismissed? Some have 15 charges against them, others have 10 or five. Many have killed police officers and civilians, and there are cases of looting as well," he remarked.
Given these facts, he questioned the appropriateness of the state government's actions.
He also expressed skepticism about the Congress government's claim that these are the last six Maoists in the state.
"Is there any proof to substantiate this? Are there potentially others who might still surrender?" he asked.
He emphasized that a review should be conducted regarding the decision to provide a package to the surrendered Maoists.
Previously, Karnataka BJP General Secretary and MLA V. Sunil Kumar criticized the Siddaramaiah-led Congress government for facilitating the surrender of six Maoists, arguing that this move could lead to the emergence of 'Urban Naxals'.
While addressing the media, Sunil Kumar, who represents the Maoist-affected Karkala Assembly constituency, called this a troubling development.
"This is an effort to label the Maoists, who operate in forests, as 'Urban Naxals'. For years, police personnel with the Anti-Naxal Force (ANF) have conducted operations tirelessly against them, and this situation will demoralize them," Kumar emphasized.
"The 'Shantigaagi Naagarikara Vedike' (Citizens Forum for Peace) facilitating the surrender process is linked to Urban Naxals. Additionally, the government has also announced packages for the surrendered Maoists," he added.
The surrender process was facilitated by Shantigaagi Naagarikara Vedike.
The surrendered Maoists include Mundagaru Latha from Mundagaru in Sringeri, Vanajakshi from Balehole in Kalasa, Sundari from Kuntaluru near Mangaluru, Marappa Aroli from Raichur, Vasantha T. from Tamil Nadu, and N. Jeesha from Kerala, all of whom surrendered before CM Siddaramaiah at his office 'Krishna'.
