How can an insurgent group offer ceasefire to a sovereign nation

"Let there be no illusion. The terror threat to the country has not diminished. During the last six months, a significant number of potential terrorists including Madani have been arrested.

He said terror was a global phenomenon but that did not give any solace to India because "one of the epicentres of terror is the country on our border".

"As long as they indulge in murder, threat, extortion, there's no question of talking to them. How can an insurgent group offer ceasefire to a sovereign nation," he said ridiculing reports that government would accept ceasefire offer by DHD-J alias "Black Widow" militant group in Assam.

The Home Minister said the government has two-pronged approach to deal with the Left Wing extremism -- clear and hold the territory held by Naxals and then carry out development. "We will face the challenge squarely," he said.