Karnataka CM lauds Naxalites for choosing to abjure violence, and returning to mainstream

Bengaluru: Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Thursday presided over a programme where Naxalites pledged to abjure violence and follow the path of non-violence and democratic life.  

Speaking on the occasion, he said it was not wrong to fight for justice or against exploitation and oppression. In fact, the Constitution of India allows for fighting for systemic changes, but the methods must be peaceful and fair.

“Naxalism and armed struggle are not allowed in the Constitution nor are they valid in a democratic set up. In the past too, many Naxalites have given up arms and entered mainstream life. The government has provided assistance for their rehabilitation as well,” he said.

“The Civil Forum for Peace recently met me and informed me about their plans to convince Naxalites to abjure violence. At that time, I had said that the government would provide all assistance to them to give up Naxalism and return to normal life. We will do whatever is needed to end Naxalism in Karnataka and respond to the demands of those adherents, within the legal framework,” he added.

“The Constitution of India does not endorse fighting with weapons to achieve justice. If citizens take the law into their own hands, governments cannot remain silent. Our government is trying hard to reduce social injustice. Our mission is that no injustice should be done to anyone,” the CM said.  

Speaking on welfare measures, Siddaramaiah said to protect the rights of the poor, his government had implemented many programmes to empower them economically and socially.

“This is the purpose of guarantee schemes like Shakti and Grihalakshmi Yojana. They will give the poor a chance to live with dignity. Only if the poor are empowered to live economically and socially, is change possible in society,” he said in conclusion.