No difference between naxalism and terrorism

Bhopal, Apr 11 (UNI) Chhattisgarh Revenue and Culture Minister Brijmohan Agrawal today pointed out that little difference has been left between naxal menace and terrorism.

''Though naxalism is traced to economic and social causes, it has been reduced to an activity much like terrorism aimed at spreading fear and terror,'' Mr Agrawal, who was here on a day's visit, told reporters.

He said the recent spurt in violence targeting innocent people by naxals, who were frustrated with spontaneous anti-naxal 'Salwa Judum' movement, proved that there was no difference between terrorism and naxalism.

Mr Agrawal said the movement has not been halted, as no spontaneous movement ever does.

He said the naxal problem was spread across 16 states and could be dealt with Centre's initiative by developing a coordinated strategy.

The Minister said police faced difficulties in tackling naxals due to lack of training in guerilla and jungle warfare.

However, steps were being taken to deal with the problem and an institution -- third of its kind in the country -- has come up in Kanker district in Chhattisgarh to impart training in guerilla and jungle warfare.

He denied impact on flow of visitors at tourist spots due to naxal activities and added that the Chhattisgarh Government will shortly enter into tourism exchange-related agreements with Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Jharkhand and Orissa governments.

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