Abjure violence, commit to unconditional talks: Chidambaram to Maoists
New Delhi:Home Minister P Chidambaram today asked Maoists to abjure violence completely and make a statement committing themselves to unconditional talks.
In a statement issued here, Chidambaram said: "I would like a short, simple statement
from the CPI (Maoist) saying we will abjure violence and we are prepared for talks."
"I would like no ifs, no buts and no conditions. I would like the statement to
be faxed to 011-23093155. Once I receive the statement, I shall consult the Prime
Minister and other colleagues and respond promptly," he added. On Monday night,
the Maoists had offered a 72 day long ceasefire with the Central Government starting
from February 26 and said they were willing to stop violence if the government
would stop operations against them. Top Maoist leader Mallojula Koteshwar Rao
alias Kishenji had said that talks with the government could take place only if
it stops the ongoing anti-Naxal operation. He also suggested that intellectuals
and human rights activists be allowed to mediate in the talks."
