Huge efforts required to contain Left Wing Extremism, says Manmohan Singh

New Delhi, Sep 16 (ANI): Stating that the security environment in the country continues to be a matter of concern, Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh on Friday said a huge collective and coordinated effort is required both by the Centre and the States acting in concert to deal with the problem of Left wing extremism.

"The security environment in the country continues to be uncertain. The recent terrorist attacks in Mumbai and Delhi are grim reminders of the grave challenges posed by terrorism to our national security. Over the last one year, Left wing extremism has also claimed the lives of many innocent persons and police personnel," said Dr. Singh, while addressing the Annual Conference of DGPs here.

"The Home Minister has already briefed you on the large resources that have been deployed by the Government of India in dealing with the problem of Left Wing Extremism. There have been some successes on the ground. But if we seek a decisive change in the situation, then a huge collective and coordinated effort is required both by the Centre and the States acting in concert. The role of the DGPs in leading this effort is crucial and I urge that more focussed attention be given to this problem," he added.

The Prime Minister said the Central Government is trying to give a sustained thrust to development processes in the Naxalite affected areas.

"I met recently with the collectors of 60 Naxal affected districts. What they told me shows that there is a ray of hope for the development of these areas provided we show flexibility and innovation in implementing our development agenda. I have asked the Minister of Rural Development and the Planning Commission to make the necessary changes in the rules of these schemes to address some of the concerns and problems expressed by the district officers," said Dr. Singh.

"I am hopeful that with these changes and the setting up of Specialised India Reserve Battalions, that will assist directly in these development efforts, there will be some positive difference on the ground," he added. (ANI)