(a) whether it is a fact that money is extorted by anti-social element, Mafia and naxalites from traders and industrialists on a large scale in many States;
(b) if so, the details thereof;
(c) the number of complaints received by the Government in this regard during the last three years along with the action taken thereon, so far; and
(d) the outcome thereof?
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HOME AFFAIRS (SHRI HARIBHAI PARATHIBHAI CHAUDHARY)
(a) to (d): Yes Madam, there are reports that money is extorted by anti social elements, Left Wing Extremists etc from traders and industrialists in select pockets. The data on extortion of money from traders and industrialists by anti-social elements, mafia and Naxalites in various States are not maintained centrally.
‘Police’, law and ‘Public Order’ being State subjects, action with respect to maintenance of law and order lies primarily in the domain of the State Governments. Crime related to extortion, etc. is registered, investigated and prosecuted by the State Governments. The State Governments concerned initiate legal action whenever such instances come to their notice. The State Governments had been advised to establish special anti-extortion and anti-money laundering cell/Task Force in States to prevent any nexus between illegal mining/forest contractors, transporters and extremists.