Policies to curb extremism in final stage: Rajnath Singh

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh Friday said policies to tackle extremism in the country - especially in Jammu and Kashmir, northeastern states and Maoist-affected areas - are being given final shape.

He said: "Policies to tackle extremism in various parts of the country like Jammu and Kashmir, northeast and central India are being given final shape."

The minister was addressing the media here to highlight the achievements of his ministry in the first 100 days' rule of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government.

He said: "An integrated action plan for strengthening internal security will be prepared after consultations with all stakeholders."

Talking specifically about the Maoists, the minister said comprehensive policies are being framed to weed out Left-wing extremism (LWE) from the country.

He added that the policy to combat Left-wing extremism will be finalised as early as Friday.

"A total of 2,199 mobile towers will be installed in LWE-affected states that will greatly improve communication network," Rajnath Singh said.

"Whatever be the internal security challenges, we are determined to weed them out," he added.

Rajnath Singh said paramilitary and other forces, which are fighting the insurgents in many parts of the country, are being strengthened to increase their efficiency.

"It (policies) will be a six-pronged strategy with a comprehensive framework to protect land and coastal areas."

He said the government was open to hold talks with any group which gave up violence. "In a democracy, you have to be open to hold talks with anyone."

The home minister also appealed to Maoist ideologues to create a "conducive" atmosphere so that violence can be ended.

Asked about an Al Qaeda video which calls for attacks on India, he said: "We are examining the authenticity of the video. But India is ready to meet the challenge."

He also said that efforts are on for modernisation of the police force and making police stations more women friendly.