Normality returning to Lalgarh, claims West Bengal Govt.

Kolkata, June 24 (ANI): The West Bengal Government on Wednesday claimed the situation in Maoist-infested Lalgarh was returning to normal, as the operations by security forces entered 5th day on Wednesday.

The operation by security forces and State police is being carried out to reclaim areas taken over by Maoist-backed tribals at Lalgarh in West Midnapore district.

"I think the situation is returning to normal in Lalgarh. I have talked to the local people. I have heard their grievances. I feel if we all work together, normalcy will return soon," West Bengal Chief Secretary Asok Mohan Chakraborty told newsmen at a helipad next to the Lalgarh police station.

Asked how long the operations would continue, Chakraborty said, "The forces are here. It will depend on them and their commanders. It is not for me to comment on."

With six truckloads of rice arriving, the chief secretary said from Thursday, besides rice, dal and potatoes would be provided free to displaced villagers and in relief camps for which the Block Developmetn Officer has been given instructions.

Chakraborty said Moaists were trying to pressurise the villagers to stay away from relief camps and rice distribution centres. "I talked to the local people and asked them to defeat the designs of the Maoists." (ANI)