The Hindu : Opinion / Letters to the Editor : Talks with naxalites

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Monday, Oct 25, 2004

Opinion

Opinion - Letters to the Editor

Talks with naxalites

Sir, — This refers to the retreat of the naxalites into the forests of Andhra Pradesh after their first round of talks with the Government. The naxalites are wanted for their various acts of murder and destruction of public property. That they were allowed to roam the streets freely with arms is unfortunate.

Contrast this with the bold stand taken by the West Bengal Chief Minister who ruled out talks with the naxalites until they lay down arms unconditionally.

Poverty, unemployment and other reasons are only a camouflage for these groups to indulge in violence.

V. Raghavan,
Chennai

* * *

Sir, — The Congress Government tread the dangerous path of accommodating the naxalites to reach the corridors of power. After attaining its goal, it is taking the naxals for granted. Hence the Government's casual approach to the negotiations.

It appears the Congress has forgotten the Bhindranwale affair.

G.V.L. Narasimham,
Visakhapatnam, A.P.

* * *

Sir, — Even though the State Government's engagement of the naxalites augurs well for the democratic process, the Maoists carrying arms and freely roaming through the villages and towns is not healthy.

If the naxalites are serious about the talks, they should lay down arms.

V. Arun,
Hyderabad

* * *

Sir, — With hope writ large on their faces and petitions in their hands, common folk flooded the Government guesthouse where the naxalites were staying, seeking redress for their grievances.

This should put the political class, which professes parliamentary democracy, on alert.

T.S. Rao,
Visakhapatnam, A.P.

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