Government rules out Army role in anti-Maoist operations

NEW DELHI: Poor mobile and internet connectivity as well as impediments to construction of roads in Sukma were highlighted by its district collector at the anti-Naxal strategy review meeting, chaired by Union home minister Rajnath Singh, on Monday .

Development issues plaguing Naxal-infested districts were debated at a separate session, Union home secretary Mehrishi told a press briefing.

He said a committee under his chairmanship and comprising chief secretaries and DGPs of affected states has been set up to fine-tune a comprehensive anti-Naxal strategy. He ruled out any role for the Army in counter-Naxal operations.

Sukma collector Niraj Kumar Bansod raised the practical problems in implementing Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana in his district, noting how thin presence of government agencies as well as persistence of Naxalites to damage the roads is hampering the administration's efforts to improve connectivity. Another key issue is poor connectivity.