Tuesday, July 4 2006 18:41 Hrs (IST) - World Time -

Hyderabad: The Centre is not averse to holding talks with Naxalites if they give up arms, Union Home Secretary V K Duggal said here today (July 4, 2006).

"It is the government's policy that unless they (Naxalites) shun violence, no talks are possible," Duggal told reporters after reviewing the law and order situation with Andhra Pradesh government and police officials.

Barring Chhattisgarh, Naxalite violence in the country is under control, he said.

Asked about the impact of developments in Nepal on Maoists in India, he said, "There is no physical link between Maoists in Nepal and India. However, there is an ideological link."

Giving an outline of the law and order situation across the country, Duggal said the overall level of violence this year was much lower compared to last year, and violence by Naxalites in Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, Orissa and Bihar had been contained.

He, however, admitted that Naxalite violence in Chhattisgarh had shown some upsurge and there was a need for intensified efforts to control the menace. "A meeting of officials of states affected by Naxalite violence will be held in Delhi on July 21 to review the situation,"Duggal said.

On ISI activities in the country, Duggal said the situation is by and large under control though the support to terrorism continues from across the border.