Jogi appeals to naxals

Raipur, June 18 (UNI) Congress Working Committee Member and former Chhattisgarh chief minister Ajit Jogi today appealed to naxals not to prevent tribals from farming in Bastar division.

''After (the anti-rebel) 'Salwa Judum' (campaign) began, tribals and others living in Bastar have been unable to start farming for three consecutive years. They are forced to rely on government assistance. Voluntary organisations can play a better role,'' he said in a statement released here.

Mr Jogi felt that the state government should provide seeds, fertiliser and tractor ploughing on government expense.

People were taking refuge in camps after naxals began eliminating those taking part in Salwa Judum.

UNI AS-AC 1923