Naxalism, threat to country's internal security: Shivraj Patil

Jagdalpur, May 11 (UNI) Union Home Minister Shivraj Patil today said Naxalism is a serious threat to internal security of the country and a solution to the problem should be found out.

''All political parties should rise above politics over the issue so that a better solution could be found out,'' said Mr Patil, while talking to reporters here after visiting naxal-affected Dantewara district.

Earlier, while addressing CRPF jawans at Aranpur village in Dantewara district, Mr Patil urged Naxalites to shun violence and come forward for discussion.

Referring to Naxals, the Union Minister said the country could provide them everything they wanted but their method of approach was not proper.

''Naxals are our spoiled brothers. They are also citizens of this country but they do not believe in discussion necessary from the viewpoint of democracy and the Constitution. The government would not remain silent if Naxals speak the language of guns,'' he said.

Commenting upon violence in naxal-affected areas, Mr Patil said, ''Our jawans are working in these areas with full dedication. They would not allow the intentions of naxals to fructify.'' He called upon Naxalites to join mainstream as solution could not be found out through violence in democracy.

Regarding the demand for special package for jawans posted in naxal-affected areas, the Union Minister said the government would take necessary steps in this regard.

Apart from meeting villagers, Mr Patil met security jawans at Pamed in Bijapur district.

Earlier, Mr Patil arrived Raipur and left for Aranpur village in a helicopter along with Governor E S L Narsimhan and Chief Minister Raman Singh.

He added the Centre would provide every possible assistance to states to deal with the naxalite menace.

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