West Bengal Chief Minister Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee said he was happy with development work undertaken in the Naxalite-affected Lalgarh area, but felt the pace should be accelerated.
Commenting on allegations that despite promises made by secretaries after the joint operation started in June this year, there had been no or little development, Buddhadeb said, “The development process is being hampered by constant threats from Naxalites and PCAPA supporters.” Elucidating the point, he said development had taken place in the areas around main roads where the joint forces had been able to reestablish control.
“However, we are not able to develop the core area i.e. deep inside villages and jungles as the joint forces are yet to penetrate there.”
Giving details of the development work, he said the supply line into ration shops in 11 blocks of the Lalgarh area had been improved and that a final BPL list after being reviewed would be prepared and enforced in end-December.
“The Public Health Engineering has been working to improve the drinking water supply, health and irrigation system. However, work is being hampered because of problems created by the Naxalites. They are extorting money form the contractors and the government officials,” he said.
Asked about occupation of school buildings by the joint forces, Bhattacharjee said he was confident that they would be vacated by mid-January, next year.