New Delhi, April 09: Three days after 76 security personnel were massacred by Maoists in Chhattisgarh, Home Minister P Chidambaram on Friday accepted ‘full responsibility’ for the tragedy saying that the buck stops at his desk after Dantewada.
Speaking at the ‘Shaurya Divas’ (Valour Day) function of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), a somber looking Home Minister said, “I have been asked directly or indirectly where the buck stops after the attack. The buck stops at my desk. I accept full responsibility for what happened in Dantewada.”
“Immediately on return from Chhattisgarh, I called on the Prime Minister and gave it to him in writing that I take full responsibility for what happened there,” he revealed.
He did not go any further, saying, “Let me not elaborate.”
Remembering the martyrs, Chidambaram said that the nation won’t forget their bravery.
“We honour the CRPF’s valour. CRPF is more than just a reserve force. I am proud of the innumerable duties the CRPF is called upon to perform. I salute all those who laid down their lives and my heart goes out to their families,” Chidambaram said.
Lauding the sacrifices of the paramilitary force, he added that the government was trying to ensure that personnel from it were well-paid, well-housed and well-equipped.
He also said his Ministry will ensure that the families of slain jawans received compensation by the end of this month and one member from each of them got a job.
Noting that the government will always stand by the security forces, the Home Minister said they performed duties so that people could live in freedom, liberty and democracy.
–Agencies