Government has right to use force against Maoists: Chidambaram

New Delhi, Mar 12 (ANI): Union Home Minister P Chidambaram on Friday defended the use of force against Naxalites, saying it was a legitimate right of the Government.

Addressing the India "Today Conclave 2010," Chidambaram clarified that it is the legitimate right of the Government to reclaim territories where they have lost control to Naxalites.

He expressed confidence that the Centre would be able to get rid of the Maoist menace over the next four years.

"I am confident that before the UPA's second term ends, we will be able to get rid of the Maoist menace," Chidambaram said.

He assured that once the areas are cleared from Maoist elements, then development work could be pursued expeditiously.

In his address, Chidambaram described jihadi terrorism and the Maoist insurgency as twin challenges for the Indian security scenario.

The Naxals showed their presence in over 200 districts in the country.

Chidambaram also ruled out a view expressed by a section of human rights activists that Naxalites are pro-poor and development.

"They (Maoists) seek to overthrow the Indian State through armed rebellion and their revolution is all about territorial control, " Chidambaram said.

Referring to the offer of talks made by the Centre to the Maoists recently, Chidambaram asked, "Why aren't the Maoists making a simple statement that we abjure violence?"

Meanwhile, the joint operation launched in three Naxal affected states-- Jharkhand, Orissa and West Bengal against Maoists has gained significant success, by bursting two major Maoist training camps. (ANI)