West Bengal seeks central assistance to develop Maoist-hit areas

The West Bengal government today sought Central assistance for developing infrastructure in Maoist-affected areas in the state.

The situation in Maoist-hit areas in a number of districts was explained to union cabinet secretary KM Chandrasekhar by state chief secretary Asok Mohan Chakraborty, home secretary Ardhendu Sen and DGP Bhupinder Singh through video conference.

The chief secretary said the meeting discussed the immediate need for developing infrastructure like water, power and roads in such areas.

The home secretary said the situation had been explained to the union cabinet secretary and financial assistance sought, but did not divulge the quantum.

The Centre was looking into the matter, he said.

Asked if more central forces were sought in the anti-Maoist operation, he said it did not figure in the talks.