Kerala's Maoist fund cut by centre: Helicopter dues cross three crores

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The cost of the helicopter hired by the police has also been in crisis after the central government reduced the funds for Kerala after it was declared Maoist-free. The rent arrears are more than three crores at present. With the reduction in central funds, the rent will have to be paid from the treasury.

The centre used to provide Rs 20 crore annually for the Maoist hunt. This amount was used to purchase weapons and vehicles and to pay rent for the helicopter. After Wayanad, Palakkad and Malappuram districts were declared Maoist-free, the fund was cut by 75 percent. The amount provided by the centre can now be used only for community policing and expenses of volunteers.

The helicopter of Chipson Aviation was rented for Rs 80 lakh per month to monitor the Maoists in the forest as per the request of the police. Apart from flying VIPs occasionally, the helicopter does not have any significant work. The helicopter, which is in the hangar unit in Chalakudy, will reach the capital when needed.

The helicopter has been rented for a period of three years. Rs 28.80 crore has to be paid as per the contract during this period. There is a provision to extend the contract for two more years if required.

Maoist surveillance fails

• When the helicopter went to observe the Maoists, only the greenery of the forest could be seen. The Maoists escaped after hearing the noise.
• The company claims the helicopter can fly in adverse weather conditions, including at night. However, the helicopter will not fly at night or if there is wind or rain. It cannot be used for airlifting and rescue missions.
• The police stand is that the helicopter is needed for aerial surveillance, observation in forest areas, rescue operations, and observation in coastal areas and tourist and pilgrimage areas.
• Maoist-affected districts in India-18
• Earlier it was 38