Dialogue with Villagers Held at Former Maoist Stronghold in Palamu

Minister and MP Interact with Villagers at Chhetema, a Once Maoist-Dominated Area

Key Points:

• Minister Radhakrishna Kishore and MP Vishnudeo Ram engaged with Chhetema villagers.
• Discussions covered development projects, health facilities, and Maoist-free progress.
• Authorities announced monthly camps at security pickets to address local issues.

MEDININAGAR – Chhetema village, once a hub of Maoist “people’s courts” in Palamu district, hosted a significant dialogue on Tuesday. Jharkhand Finance Minister Radhakrishna Kishore and Palamu MP Vishnudeo Ram met with villagers to discuss ongoing development and security measures.

The event was attended by Deputy Commissioner Shashi Ranjan, Superintendent of Police Reeshma Rameshan, and other officials. The venue, symbolic of past insurgency struggles, marked a shift toward peace and progress.

Minister Emphasizes Development and Security

Minister Kishore noted the state government’s commitment to improving infrastructure and security in remote areas. He highlighted the positive impact of the security picket established in 2018, which locals described as their “second independence.” Assuring better healthcare access, Kishore announced the provision of an ambulance at the picket and pledged to address lapses in welfare schemes.

MP Stresses Need for Sustained Security

MP Vishnudeo Ram emphasized the need to retain pickets in certain areas for another couple of years to ensure sustained peace. He proposed linking pickets through road development projects and promised to push for government action where necessary.

Administrative Announcements and Community Initiatives

DC Shashi Ranjan and SP Reeshma Rameshan announced monthly camps at pickets to address local grievances efficiently. They emphasized the role of pickets in creating a secure and fearless environment in previously troubled areas.

Community Engagement and Welfare Distribution

During the dialogue, Minister Kishore resolved several community issues and distributed essential items, including blankets and government welfare assets, to the villagers. The interaction underscored a collective effort toward comprehensive development in Chhetema and surrounding regions.