Kiren Rijiju talks Kashmir, Maoism, NE insurgency and more
What's the story
The home ministry is currently battling crises in different regions - in the north, the Kashmir problem, in the northeast, insurgency, and in the centre, the Maoist movement. There's also the looming threat of ISIS. Minister of State for Home Affairs, Kiren Rijiju, talked to DNA about the government's approach in different areas. Find out what he said.
North
About Kashmir
Rijiju says use of violence by separatists hasn't left room for dialogue; physical operations were needed and they have been successful. Terming the government's approach "rational", he said: "Tough action by the NIA against terror funding and keeping forces on the ground are part of government's resolve to ensure no group can endanger security." Those "keeping connections with the enemy" won't be spared, he added.
Centre/NE
About the Maoist insurgency and the Seven Sisters
According to Rijiju, the Maoist challenge, though "immense", has been on the retreat. "The high number of surrenders by their leaders and cadres has put them on the back foot." Apart from operations, the government is also focusing on reaching out to the poor tribals and on development, two factors that helped insurgency, he said. In the northeast too, "states are moving towards normalcy."
Quote
About an ISIS threat
Rijiju says, "India isn't facing a threat from ISIS because of our proactive approach. On the ground, community elders and clergy have played an important role in ensuring youths don't go astray. Meanwhile, Centre and states have been putting in a concerted effort towards de-radicalization."
Security
About general security
Rijiju claims the government has "taken steps in the right direction" to ensure communal harmony: states have been sent advisories on dealing with such incidents, and cow vigilantism has been "strictly dealt with". As far as the borders are concerned, technological solutions are being adopted to enhance security. "Hi-tech gadgets for surveillance and better communication system have been put in place."