This refers to the report "Reds in Retreat" (BS Weekend, September 28). It is a sigh of relief that the Naxal communication has itself admitted that the rebels are now on the back foot. The strategy of the security forces is paying rich dividends - killing the leadership and destroying the supply chain of arms and ammunition. Some intellectuals and a section of the media has portrayed the naxal violence as violence of the oppressed. This view cannot be subscribed to. Maoist violence cannot be condoned for the simple reason that everyday police atrocities take place and the hapless victims do not resort to violence. Victims of corruption, the ordinary citizens, bear the injustice in silence. The maoists attack bridges, railway stations, hospitals and other public institutions and this goes against their claim of fighting for the poor. These facilities are used by the oppressed. Their violent means have seriously impeded development. It is high time that the government thinks of using air power for precision strikes to tackle this menace. Armed drones should be used for precision strikes on Maoist hideouts. The acquisition of foliage penetration radars would help improve surveillance of dense forest areas. We must learn from the experience of other nations such as Israel in dealing with such terror outfits.
Deendayal M Lulla Mumbai
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