Nitish extends olive branch to Naxalites

With pressure mounting to ensure safe return of the three policemen who are in the custody of the Naxalites, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar today offered an olive branch to the rebels. After an all-party meeting on the issue here in Patna, Kumar appealed for safe release of the jawans.

“We are ready for talks with the Naxalites. The Bihar government will give safe passage to the Naxalite leaders. There will be no action against the leaders if they come for talks. The Naxalites should come forward for direct talks. I am ready for talks. If they do not want to talk to me, other party leaders are willing,” said Kumar, adding, “Please do not harm the hostages.”

While questioning the authenticity of the alleged Naxal spokesperson, Avinash, he said, “You cannot talk on the phone about such a serious issue. Two days back, somebody called up media offices, claiming to be the spokesperson of the Naxalites and said they had killed Sub-Inspector Abhay Yadav. However, the very next day, we found the body of another policeman. Moreover, I am ready for direct talks. We give them word that no harm will be done to them on the way to and from their base. We are ready to involve any person they like in the dialogue.”