Expressing grief over the loss of precious lives in the latest Maoist attack in Chhattisgarh, Chief Minister Raman Singh termed it a direct assault on democracy and an attempt to stall growth in the state.
"The loss of 16 precious lives has now been confirmed, in which at least eleven Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel, four personnel of the district force and one civilian, who is yet to be identified have died in the Maoist ambush. I extend my heartfelt condolences to the families of those who lost their dear ones." Singh said
"This motive of this attack was purely done to stall growth and development of the state. The Red Extremists want to stop the progress of constructing roads in the state," said Singh.
"Such attacks before polls are done only to weaken democracy. This fight is not only that of Chhattisgarh alone, but for the entire nation as a whole. We will seek additional forces when Bastar goes for polls during the first phase of the coming general elections. During the assembly elections we were provided with 400 companies of security personnel. This time we have been assured of 65 companies of paramilitary forces already while this developing situation calls for a need to provide us with an additional 65 companies of forces at least." Singh said
Earlier, television reports said that the Maoist IED-cum-gunfire attack was launched on a Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) search and patrol party that left at least twenty paramilitary personnel dead in the Jheerum area of Chhattisgarh's Jagadalpur District on Tuesday.