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.

Halt operations in Lalgarh: Mamata to Centre

Chidambaram wants police in Maoist belt to stick to procedures

There is a standard operation procedure for police to move in naxal-affected areas. If they follow these, such things will not happen.

Centre declares Maoists a terrorist organization

Maoists are killing innocent citizens--------WB cm

Mr. Bhattacharjee said the Home Minister assured him that if the state government required more forces, he would be ready to send them. The West Bengal government has already deployed about 1,300 personnel of the CRPF and about 600 BSF men.

Mr. Bhattacharjee accused the Maoists of killing innocent citizens and engaging in extortion and many other crimes with the locals suffering heavily.

"It will take some time to get rid of the Maoist menace and we will continue the campaign," he said.

Police say suspected Maoist rebels kill 9 officers

11 policemen killed, 6 hurt in landmine explosion in Jharkhand