Naga, Mizo battalions to be withdarwan from Chhattisgarh

Raipur, May 30 (UNI) Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Raman Singh said here today the Naga and Mizo battalions deployed in Naxal-affected areas of the Bastar region would be withdrawn, ''We have discussed the matter with Union Home Minister Shivraj V Patil,'' he told mediapersons at the Mana Airport.

Alternate arrangements for security in the areas, after the withdrawal, were also discussed. The decision came at a time when these personnel were facing widespread criticism for their alleged misbehaviour with local tribals.

Dr Singh said he also requested Mr Patil to convene a meeting of all the Maoist-affected states to formulate a joint strategy to deal with the challenge.

UNI