West Bengal: Maoists offer money for arms

Lalgarh, Aug 9: After 12 days the West Bengal government announced a surrender and rehabilitation package for the rebels, the Maoists on Sunday, Aug 8 offered money for handing over weapons allegedly being used by CPI(M) cadres in the Naxal-hit areas.

"Those handing over SLRs or AK 47 rifles would be paid one lakh and 70,000 each would be paid for a carbine, automatic revolver and pistol, while country-made guns would fetch Rs 8,000 and above," Maoist central committee member Akash said.

Akash said 58 camps were being run by the Marxists in West Midnapore district, 16 in Purulia and Bankura districts combined, while 23 schools in the 'jungle mahal' area were also being used as arms training centres.

Akash also alleged that villagers were forced to join arms training camps by CPI(M)

"Those deserting the camps with arms would be given cash rewards and would not be harmed by the Maoists," Akash said.

On Jul 28, the West Bengal government had announced a surrender-cum-rehabilitation package for Maoists.

According to the package, the government would make a fixed deposit of Rs 1.5 lakh for each surrendered Maoist for a period of three years and will also be paid Rs 2,000 each per month for a period of three years and be given vocational training in a trade of their choice.

OneIndia News