Chidambaram says Left Wing Extremism problem will be overcome in next three years

New Delhi (ANI) - Union Home Minister P Chidambaram on Thursday said the challenge of Left Wing Extremism would be met with determination jointly by the Central and State Governments and the problem will be overcome in the next three years.

Chidambaram, who chaired a meeting of the Parliamentary Consultative Committee for the Ministry of Home Affairs, said that after consultations with the affected States, it was agreed to have a two-pronged strategy, namely, development and police action.

"While Central Government acknowledged that the primary role and responsibility was that of the State Governments in enforcing law and order in confronting the challenge of Left Wing Extremists, it also recognized the responsibility of the Central Government in assisting the States in every way - including deploying Central Para-Military Forces, sharing intelligence and funding for both development schemes and security needs," he added.

Chidambaram informed that in a meeting of Chief Ministers of seven naxal-affected States chaired by Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh on July 14, it was agreed to provide the States additional helicopters for logistical support, provide funds for establishment/strengthening of 400 police stations on 80:20 basis, support recruiting additional Special Police Officers and setting up of Unified Command for anti-naxal operations in four States,

"It was also agreed to set up an Empowered Group chaired by Member Secretary, Planning Commission to review existing norms/guidelines in implementation of various development schemes having regard to local needs and conditions, and provide funds for a Special Development Plan for the affected districts with emphasis on road connectivity, primary education, primary health care and drinking water," he added.

The agenda of the meeting was "Left Wing Extremism". This was the third meeting of the Committee on the subject.

During the discussions, the members broadly agreed with the suggestions given in the agenda note, which included steps on both security and development fronts.

The members also gave various useful suggestions during the meeting.