The Home Ministry is skeptical about the Maoist offer of a 72-day ceasefire that will be implemented if New Delhi cancels an offensive against them. The government said no response will be given until a formal letter is sent. It has asked Maoists to fax an unconditional proposal to the ministry. Home Minister, Palaniappan Chidambaram, said if the rebels give up violence, talks may take place.
On the other hand, Maoists have revealed a secret mobile number where the ministry should communicate its views on the offer. On Monday, rebel military commander Koteshwar Rao, widely known as Kishenji, made the offer through television and newspaper offices. The ceasefire is to be held from the 25th of February to the 7th of May.
