Naxal Death Threat to Padma Shri Vaidyaraj and Five Others
Narayanpur: Naxals issue pamphlet threatening to kill six people
In Narayanpur district of Chhattisgarh, Naxals have issued a death threat against Padma awardee Vaidyaraj Hemchand Manjhi and five others. The Naxals accused these individuals of acting as middlemen for mines and supporting police camps. The pamphlet, issued by the East Bastar Division Committee, declares that these individuals will be sentenced to death in a people’s court.
Allegations in the Pamphlet
The Naxals reportedly distributed the pamphlet near Dhaudai, stating that anyone supporting the Amadayi mines would face punishment in a people’s court. The pamphlet named Padma Hemchand Manjhi, village head Hariram Manjhi, Narayan Nag, Tilak Belsaria, transport union president Sharad, and Rameshwar Baghel, accusing them of being middlemen for the mines and supporters of police camps.
The pamphlet reads, These people are supporting police camps and mines. They will meet the same fate as Sagar Sahu. It is worth noting that Naxals have issued similar threatening pamphlets in the past.
Fear Ahead of Panchayat Elections
The pamphlet has created panic in the region, particularly with the upcoming three-tier panchayat elections. The threats have spread fear among villagers and local leaders. Police are taking the matter seriously and investigating the pamphlet.
Previous Murder of Vaidyaraj’s Nephew
Padma Vaidyaraj Hemchand Manjhi has faced Naxal violence before. A few months ago, his nephew was killed by Naxals. Currently, Hemchand Manjhi resides in the Narayanpur district headquarters. Last year, he was honored with the Padma Shri award by President Droupadi Murmu.
Rise in Naxal Activities
In recent months, Naxal activities have intensified in the Bastar region. Naxals have frequently targeted local leaders and the administration, opposing mining operations. The Amadayi mines, where mining activities are ongoing, have become a focal point for Naxal resistance, as they claim such projects infringe on tribal rights and lands.
Opposition to Mines and Police Camps
Naxals view mines and police camps as threats to their ideology. They claim to stand in support of tribal communities, portraying the mines as harmful to their rights. The Naxals often label local leaders and individuals involved in mining operations as “agents” and issue death threats against them.
Vaidyaraj Hemchand Manjhi’s Contribution
Padma Shri recipient Hemchand Manjhi is renowned for his contributions to traditional tribal medicine and the welfare of the tribal community. His efforts to promote indigenous healing practices have earned him recognition. However, the murder of his nephew and this latest threat have raised significant concerns for his safety and that of his family.
Police and Administrative Response
Police are treating the pamphlet as a serious matter. Authorities have stated that investigations are underway and security measures will be strengthened. Increased patrolling has been implemented in Narayanpur and surrounding areas to ensure the safety of those threatened.
Atmosphere of Fear Among Villagers and Leaders
Following the Naxal threats, fear has gripped villages in and around Dhaudai. Several local leaders have requested police protection. Authorities believe that the Naxals are attempting to create an atmosphere of fear to disrupt elections and hinder development activities in the region.
Continued Resistance to Mines
Naxals have long opposed mining projects such as the Amadayi mines, claiming that these projects harm the environment and the livelihoods of tribal communities. Additionally, they use threats and violence to propagate their ideology and discourage cooperation with mining activities.
Police Strategies and Challenges
Tackling Naxals in areas like Bastar has always been a challenge for the police. Authorities have vowed to ensure the safety of those targeted and to investigate the matter thoroughly. However, questions remain about whether the police can effectively counter such threats and prevent further violence.
The death threats issued by Naxals to Padma Hemchand Manjhi and five others have not only instilled fear in the region but also raised concerns about the ongoing Naxal violence. It is imperative for the police and administration to ensure the safety of the affected individuals and address the root causes of Naxal activities. Additionally, the government must take concrete steps to promote development and peace in Naxal-affected areas to prevent such incidents in the future.
