Naxalites are terrorists, says Chhattisgarh Chief Minister

New Delhi, May 19 (ANI): Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Raman Singh on Wednesday said the Naxalites are terrorists, adding that it is quite possible that they might be linked to terrorist outfits.

Speaking at a press conference here, Raman Singh said: "Naxalites are terrorists. It is quite possible that they might be linked to Lashkar operatives," said Raman Singh.

"They kill innocent people," he added.

He further said the State Government cannot solely depend on the police to tackle the menace, as the Naxalites keep on changing their strategies.

He said there was no question of air strikes against the Naxals. The State government was trying to investigate the sources, who lend support to the Naxals.

"The government is seeking latest technology to detect IEDs planted by the naxalites," he added.

He favoured a long-term joint action plan with the Centre to tackle the Maoists.

About 35 people were killed when Maoists blew up a private bus near Dantewada in Chhattisgarh.

The bus was on its way from Dantewada to Sukma. The incident took place near Chingawaram, about nine kilometers from Sukma.

The bus was carrying 20 special police officers (SPO) and over 30 civilians. (ANI)