I don’t understand why the govt is bent on using force

It is my sincere appeal to the government to rethink use of force against Maoists. Force, whether used by the government or Maoists, is not going to lead us to a sustainable solution.

The government has declared CPI-Maoist a terrorist organisation following large-scale violence by the group against security forces and government officials over the past few years. The ban comes in the wake of violence in Lalgarh area of Bengal’s West Midnapore district. West Bengal Police, along with paramilitary forces, have been combing the area for Maoists for the last few days.

We at People’s Union for Civil Liberties (PUCL) have consistently taken the stand that use of force, either by the government or Maoists, is not going to lead us to a solution.
My deepest condolences to the families of those killed in the violence in Lalgarh. The government should seriously think about opening a dialogue with Maoists.

I am not in touch with any of the organisations there, but I believe from what I have gathered from media reports that organisations active in West Midnapore are willing to talk peace. Chhatradhar Mahato of People’s Committee Against Police Atrocity has said talks should be held. Their conditions are simple. I don’t understand why the government is adamant on using force.

It is my sincere prayer that all parties should look for a peaceful solution.

(The pediatrician and PUCL leader, who is out on bail after spending over two years in jail for alleged links with Maoists, spoke to DNA’s Aditya Kaul)