Unified Army command likely to battle Maoists

Hit by the rapid increase in Maoist violence against civilians, the government is considering to call in the Army and set up a Unified Command to launch concerted anti-Naxal operations. The Army is likely to use it’s Special Forces commandos for “precision strikes” to eliminate Maoists in case of credible intelligence. The Army may not be used for day-to-day operations. The Unified Command will comprise military, paramilitary and police personnel deployed in the anti-Naxal operations.

In case the go-ahead is given for a Unified Command, sources said it could be located near Nagpur.

The command could be headed by a top Army officer of the rank of lieutenant general. The option was discussed at a meeting between the defence minister, Mr A.K. Antony, and the three service chiefs on Tuesday.

Also in a first move towards use of air power against Maoists, the Centre has asked the NTRO to pull out six UAVs lying in cold storage for deployment in anti-Naxal operations. Some of the IAF personnel, who are on deputation in NTRO, will be flying the UAVs. They are undergoing training to fly the spy drones, sources revealed.