Naxalism is the greatest internal threat: PM

Mumbai, Oct 11: Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on Sunday, Oct 11 said that the government is determined to take 'effective measures' against Maoist guerrillas but won't use the military against them.

Addressing at a press conference, Singh said that the Naxals were the biggest internal security threat but the government is willing to hold talks with them if they abjured violence.

When asked if the government proposed to declare the ultra-left groups as terrorists organisation, Singh said, "They (Naxals) are banned organisations and are covered under Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act."

He said, "We are not in favour of using the armed forces against the Naxalites. The para-military forces and police are adequate (for operations against Naxals)."

Singh said that the government is taking all steps to deal with the menace of Naxalism. "Naxalism is the greatest internal threat. In months to come, there will be positive results on the Naxal front."

OneIndia News