State wants dialogue with Naxalites

The state government is exploring the possibility of a peaceful solution to the decade-long Naxalite problem in Maharashtra, reports Pradip Kumar Maitra.

The state government is exploring the possibility of a peaceful solution to the decade-long Naxalite problem in Maharashtra.

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In perhaps the first ever initiative on part of the state, Min-ister of State for Finance, Energy, Parliamentary Affairs and Water Resources Vijay Wadettiwar on Thursday urged the Naxalites to hold peace dialogues and join mainstream politics.

Wadettiwar said the government was in favour of development and uplift of tribals in backward areas like Gadchiroli — an issue that the Naxalites claim to be fighting for.

“The government is ready to work with Naxalites for the realisation of their goals if they lay down arms,” the minister said.

“We request them to stop the violence and come to the dialogue table.”