Even as the seven-day deadline by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee to the Maoists active in West Bengal's Jangalmahal region to give up arms and sit for negotiations expired on Saturday, the State government asserted that it was still open to talks with the rebels.
“In a democracy, there must be some options open. We can discuss, we can negotiate…If they [the Maoists] listen, it is good,” Ms. Banerjee said in New Delhi while referring to the left-wing extremists as “brothers and sisters.”
The Chief Minister's remarks come at a time when there are distinct signs of the joint security forces preparing for a fresh and sustained offensive against the rebels in the Jangalmahal region after a lull in operations (but for the gun-battle between the forces and the Maoists earlier this week) since the Trinamool Congress-led government assumed power in May 20.
The State government's intentions were made clear a few days ago when it reportedly sought from the Centre two additional battalions of paramilitary forces to supplement those already deployed in the region.
Showing flexibility
But, by indicating, once again, that her government was still keen for talks with the left-wing extremists, the Chief Minister had shown her willingness to be flexible on the deadline announced on October 15 although her patience with the Maoists may well be wearing thin.
There was evidence of this during her meeting with State-appointed interlocutors for talks with the Maoists at a strategy session convened by her on October 18.
Ms. Banerjee once again reiterated that the State government was ready to offer those Maoists who surrender a rehabilitation and financial package she had announced in August.