The Centre today asked the security forces to take maximum precaution during offensives against ultras and abandon such plans if women and children are found to be used as human shields. The Standard Operating Procedures, SOPs, to be followed by the forces in such situation were discussed at a high-level meeting in New Delhi which was attended by senior officials of the Home Ministry and representatives of Maoist-affected states.

According to an official, the main emphasis of the SOPs is how to check Maoists' tactic of using human shield and minimise collateral damage in action. The meeting also reviewed security situation in the naxal-hit states.

The Home Ministry officials advised the states to provide adequate personnel, arms and ammunitions in police stations falling under Naxal areas. The states were asked to appoint officers with younger profile in Maoist hot beds to get desired results.

During the meeting, the Ministry and security officials also reviewed the status of the Security Related Expenditure schemes, police vacancy position in the states and their steps to recruit fresh personnel among others.