Thaindian News

Kolkata, Aug 12 (IANS) The West Bengal government has revised its surrender-cum-rehabilitation policy for Left-wing extremists and enhanced the compensation to be paid for depositing arms, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee said Friday.

“The earlier package announced has been revised and a notification in that regard has been made yesterday (Thursday). Now Rs.2 lakh will be given to the surrendering ultra for depositing a machinegun, Rs.1 lakh for an AK-47, and Rs.25,000 for a revolver or a landmine.”

In the earlier package announced by the erstwhile Left Front government, the amount given for a machinegun was Rs.25,000, for an AK-47 Rs.15,000, and for a revolver or a landmine Rs.3,000.

As per the package, based on guidelines formulated by the union home ministry, surrendering Maoist extremists would get a monthly stipend of Rs.2,000 for a period of three years, while the state government would make a fixed deposit of Rs.1.5 lakh for three years for each of those who give themselves up to the authorities.

Urging the rebels to shun violence, Banerjee said the government will arrange for their security and respectable social rehabilitation if they return to the mainstream by laying down arms. The government will also ensure the wellbeing of their families.

The chief minister also said the government will take steps to enable the surrendered ultras to get jobs.

“In fact, the stipend will be withdrawn only after the ultras get a job though the package says the amount is payable for three years,” she said.

Blaming the erstwhile Left Front government for lack of development in the Maoist-hit western districts, Banerjee urged the people to cooperate and join the government in its endeavour to bring prosperity in the area.