Chhattisgarh DGP admits paucity of central forces

Jagdalpur, Chhattisgarh, Dec 13 (UNI) Chhattisgarh's Director-General of Police Vishwaranjan today admitted that paucity of central forces was the reason why Maoists could not be effectively checked in this naxalism-affected state.

''A demand has been made for 21 battalions of central paramilitary forces -- five immediately. Security of occupants of Salwa Judum camps is a priority matter for me,'' the top officer told UNI here.

Responding to a query, he said that neighbouring states were cooperating well against the menace.

''An action plan, for combating extremism through a mix of development and security forces' assistance, has been drafted and sent to the Union Finance Ministry for approval. The plan covers eight districts in Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Bihar and Orissa,'' Mr Vishwaranjan added.

UNI