Innocent tribals being killed in anti-naxal campaign: Jogi

Raipur, Apr 29 (UNI) Former Chief Minister Ajit Jogi today said innocent tribals were being killed because of the ongoing anti-naxal movement 'Salwa Judum' in Chhattisgarh's Bastar region.

''The poor tribals are sandwiched between Naxalites, security forces and Salwa Judum activists,'' he told a news conference here.

''If the state government is not in a position to provide security, it should not involve the innocent tribals in any such movement,'' he said claiming that at least 500 people lost their lives ever since 'Salwa Judum' campaign began nearly a year ago.

''The state government is resposible for it,'' he added.

Pointing out that naxalism was a problem even during undivided Madhya Pradesh, Mr Jogi said it was only during last year that a large number of poor tribals were killed.

The former Chief Minister said he felt that a three-pronged strategy was required to deal with Naxalite problem. Those unleashing violence must be dealt with an iron hand, he said, adding steps were also required for socio-economic development of the naxalite areas.

He said efforts were required to provide basic amenities like education, health, employment, roads, drinking water and electricity in the tribal areas. Besides a political initiative is also required to motivate the people there to join the national mainstream.

Asked about the appointment of Mr K P S Gill as advisor to the state government to deal with naxalite problem, Mr Jogi said he was not sure whether the Supercop would get a free hand.

''Mr Gill got success in containing terrorism in Punjab and insurgency in some other states because of the support and contribution from the respective state governments,'' he added.

''We can expect some positive results if Mr Gill gets a free hand,'' he added.

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