Diverse statements on Maoists are worrisome, says Raman Singh

New Delhi, Apr 8 (ANI): Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Raman Singh on Thursday said that the diverse statements coming from different levels of Government on the Maoists issue are orrisome.

"The diverse statements that are coming on the Maoists issue are worrisome. I have not been able to understand it. The statement of country's Home Minister came, Prime Minister's statement came; after that, Chief of Army and Chief of Navy issued their statements," said Singh in New Delhi on Thursday.

"Is the decision-making in the hands of officials (what means to use), or it will be decided by Prime Minister, or Home Minister," he added.

"We are working on such terrain, such forest where landmines are laid for 100 kilometres. I am not asking for air attacks because population is there, but they (security forces) should get air support," said Singh.

"If we had to drop soldiers, to supply food, to bring back injured, (air) support in any system would be good," he added.

Union Home Minister P Chidambaram on Wednesday said that while at the present there was no mandate for the government to use the military or the air force in anti-Maoists operations, the option of using the air force could merit a revisit.

Air Chief Marshal P V Naik on Wednesday expressed his reservations over using the air force in ongoing anti-Maoist operations, but said the IAF would involve itself if the state ordered. At this level, it is not required. If the state is willing, they can order us at any time, we are ready for that," Air Chief Marshal Naik said.

At least 75 Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel were killed by the Maoists in an ambush in Chhattisgarh's Dantewada District on Tuesday, which is considered to be the most brutal attack ever by the rebels. (ANI)