Renewing her appeal to Maoists to give up arms and return to the national mainstream, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Friday announced a fresh financial and rehabilitation package for those who surrender.
The announcement came a day after the first encounter between Left-wing extremists and security forces in the Salboni area of Paschim Medinipur district since her government assumed power.
Referring to Maoists as “those who are in a movement where they carry arms,” she said here: “The State government has a social responsibility to help each of those who surrender to stand on his own feet, and it will encourage those involved in ultra-Left movements to return to the democratic mainstream ….. I appeal to the comrades to eschew the politics of guns and return to normal life.”
“Whether ultra-Leftists or Maoists, none is our enemy; they are the country's citizens,” Ms. Banerjee added.
The Chief Minister said instructions had been issued by her administration for the release of 50 out of 52 political detainees. Talks were on with the Centre for the release of the other two.
The package for surrendering Maoists includes a monthly stipend of Rs. 2,000 for three years and opening of a bank account in their names with a fixed deposit of Rs. 1.5 lakh each. The money can be withdrawn only after three years.
The government would also provide them jobs, training facilities or opportunities for self-employment. “A screening committee will be looking into the matter,” the Chief Minister said.
The Maoists would be given between Rs. 25,000 and Rs. 2 lakh depending on the type of weapon they laid down.
“Those surrendering could join the State government in its efforts to develop areas like Jangalmahal [ the Maoist-affected region in southwest Bengal]…We assure them of a life of total security on grounds of humanity and are welcoming anyone who comes forward to work towards development, peace and progress by laying down their arms and joining the mainstream,” Ms. Banerjee said.
