Sat Jul 19 05:27:32 UTC 2025: **News Article Summary:**
**Jharkhand CM Requests Debt Forgiveness from Center for Anti-Maoist Operations**
RANCHI, July 19, 2025 (The Hindu) – Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren has appealed to Union Home Minister Amit Shah to waive ₹13,300 crore in dues owed to the central government for the deployment of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) in anti-Maoist operations within the state.
In a letter dated July 18, 2025, Soren argued that forcing Jharkhand to pay the substantial amount would severely hinder crucial development programs. He emphasized that eradicating extremism is a shared responsibility between the state and central governments. Soren highlighted the sacrifices made by Jharkhand police, with over 400 personnel killed in the operations. He also cited the state’s ongoing efforts in the Maoist-eradication campaign and the significant reduction in extremist activities.
The Chief Minister emphasized the financial strain caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, economic recovery efforts, disaster management, and public welfare initiatives, urging the Centre to act under the spirit of cooperative federalism. At the time of publication, a massive manhunt was reportedly underway by the Jharkhand Police, looking for 55 Maoists that included top CPI commanders.
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