Naxal a by-product of regional imbalance: Raman

     Raipur, August 15, 2009: Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Dr Raman Singh today said regional imbalances had given several problems to India and naxalite menace was one of them, which had become a grave challenge to the internal security of the country.

     The Chief Minister today unfurled the Tri-Colour on the Independence Day and received salute of an impressive ceremonial parade at the Police Parade Ground here when his Ministers and Parliamentary Secretaries were Chief Guests at the District level functions.

    Addressing the function here Singh said regional imbalances have created several problems and naxal menace was one of them. 

     Naxalism had become a grave challenge to the internal security of not only Chhattisgarh but also that of the entire country, he said.

     Referring to the controversial Salwa Judum, the Chief Minister said he was saluting the brave tribals, who opposed the naxalites.

     He also called upon the people to spread the area of Salwa Judum in the state and appealed to the people to make Chhattisgarh a naxal free state.

     The Chief Minister also announced several programmes for the development of farmers, women, children and villages.

     Elaborate security arrangements have been made throughout the state for the Independence Day.