Dimapur, February 26: In the aftermath of massive attacks launched on them by the elite 9 IR Battalion of Nagaland, Naxalites operating in several northern and southern states of India are presently mobilizing their members for launching counter-attacks on the Naga jawans stationed in Chhattisgarh.

This was disclosed by leader of the Nagaland's Opposition I Imkong while briefing media persons at his private residence in Dimapur today after his return from Chhattisgarh.The Nagaland Assembly Opposition leader had been to Chhattishgarh to oversee the condition of the Nagaland police who have been deputed there to counter the Naxalites in that state.

Imkong said the Naxalites were presently on the back foot after 27-30 of their camps were busted and a large cache of arms and ammunition were seized by the Naga jawans during their "Operation Greenhorn".

The 9 IR Battalion, presently operating in five different locations under Bursur and Dantevada districts of the State, was reportedly meticulously planning every operation.

Quoting DGP Chhattisgarh OP Rathor, Imkong said one IR Battalion was equivalent to two CRPF battalions in terms of performance.

Imkong said the DGP had told him that the Naga jawans were doing excellently well and that they became "very dear" to the villagers.

On basic amenities provided to the Naga jawans, the leader of the Opposition said contrary to media reports the personnel were provided all basic amenities barring communication facility.

"This is the only problem the jawans are facing," Imkong said.

However, he said on being requested by Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Dr.Raman Singh, the BSNL assured to set up some towers in areas where the Naga jawans were stationed. It was learnt from Imkong that the jawans had been advised not to move in vehicles since mine detectors were not effective due to iron ore in the soil giving wrong signals.

During his visit to Chhattisgarh, Imkong had also taken up the issue of persecution of the Christians with Dr.Singh.

Imkong said a few days before his trip, a church under construction was dama ged allegedly by members of the RSS.

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