Pranab Mukherjee expresses concern over spread of Left-wing extremism

NEW DELHI - Union Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee on Tuesday expressed his concern over the spread of Left-wing extremism is some of the backward areas of the country, saying that it reflected the failure of the government in meeting expectations of the people to a certain extent.

“I am particularly concerned over the spread of Left-wing extremism in some of the more backward areas of the economy. In part, it is a reflection of our failure in meeting the expectations of the local people,” said Mukherjee, while addressing the 71st ‘Raising Day Celebrations’ of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF).

“It is easy to misguide people, who have been denied their legitimate demands or deprived of their rights and where the state has not shown adequate sensitivity in sharing and mitigating the local concerns,” he added.

Mukherjee stressed on the need for development work and police action to go hand in hand to fight the menace reiterating that the government will not tolerate the killing of innocents.

Speaking on the occasion, Mukherjee said the Central Government would provide all facilities to the para-military forces to enable them to achieve their targets.

“The government is committed to make all the necessary facilities available to the para-military forces to achieve their professional targets. The Centre is also working with states to improve their condition,” he added.

Further lauding the role of the CRPF in curbing Naxalism and terrorism, Mukherjee said: “It’s has been pivotal in countering insurgency in the Northeastern region of the country.”

The Finance Minister earlier took salute at the impressive and colourful parade by the CRPF jawans. (ANI)