Soren Urges Shah to Waive ₹13,300 Cr CRPF Dues for Anti-Maoist Operations in Jharkhand

fast Summary

• Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren has requested Union Home Minister Amit Shah too waive ₹13,300 crore in dues for CRPF deployment in anti-Maoist operations.
• Mr. Soren warned that forcing the State to pay would negatively impact development schemes.
• the CM described Maoist-eradication efforts as a joint duty of state and central governments under cooperative federalism.
• Over 400 police personnel have been killed during anti-Maoist operations as Jharkhand’s creation, highlighting the extremism crisis in the State.
• Mr. Soren emphasized challenges such as post-COVID economic revival and implementation of welfare schemes amidst limited resources and financial burdens.
• He cited a significant reduction in extremist activities due to collaborative efforts by Jharkhand Police with CRPF support.
• Currently, state forces are conducting a manhunt targeting 55 Maoists with total bounties worth ₹8.45 crore.

Indian Opinion Analysis

The demand for waiving CRPF deployment dues reflects broader tensions between resource-constrained states like Jharkhand and financial obligations towards national security efforts managed by the Center. Hemant Soren’s appeal underscores practical challenges faced by states battling extremism while trying to maintain developmental momentum amidst funding gaps exacerbated by crises like COVID recovery. From a cooperative federalism standpoint, resolving fiscal disputes over national-level security measures will require balancing regional priorities with central objectives.Jharkhand’s apparent success in reducing Maoist activities alongside ongoing manhunts demonstrates progress but also raises critical questions about sustainability without adequate financial support.This situation presents an opportunity for both governments to reassess existing models for financing shared responsibilities related to public safety and regional development.

Read more: The Hindu