PC condemns Maoist attack, admits failure

New Delhi, Feb 16: Home Minister P Chidambaram on Tuesday, Feb 16, condemned the Maoists attack on a police camp in West Bengal.

Chidambaram said, "The attack by the CPI-Maoist on a camp of the Eastern Frontier Rifles (EFR) of West Bengal is another outrageous attempt by the banned organisation to overawe the established authority in the state. I condemn the attack."

"I also conveyed my profound sympathies on the loss of lives. While there are indications of failure in some aspects, only a thorough review will reveal how the police camp with adequate strength was overrun, when there was daylight, by the CPI-Maoist," the home minister said in a statement.

He further said, "Besides, more than 40 weapons are reported to have been looted. The leader of the CPI (Maoist) has claimed responsibility for the attack and has threatened to repeat such attacks in the future."

"However, I would like to hear the voices of condemnation of those who have, erroneously, extended intellectual and material support to the CPI (Maoist)," he added

24 jawans were killed on Monday, Feb 15, when the ultras overran their camp at Silda in West Midnapore district after setting it on fire.

OneIndia News