People Challenge Maoists in West Bengal

Kolkata, 23rd. April- Daring the Maoist attacks, thousands of people have come out in processions, rallies and meetings of CPI(M) in last two days in Lalgarh, Shalboni and adjoining areas of West Midnapore district in West Bengal. Maoists, in collusion with Trinamoool Congress and some factions of Jharkhand Party have let loose a reign of terror in parts of Jhargram and Midnapore parliamentary constituencies for last few months. CPI (M) activists have been killed and chased away from large areas bordering Jharkhand. Maoist-backed forces are continuing a ‘blockade’ in Lalgarh where police and civil administration are ‘not allowed’ to enter. Two CPI (M) activists were brutally murdered on Monday, even their bodies could not be recovered. Seven more CPI (M) activists were tortured and grievously injured on Tuesday while the Maoists detonated four land mines in Shalboni.
Despite these attacks, there has been an upsurge of resistance by the people, particularly by the tribals. More than 15 thousand people joined in an election meeting of CPI (M) in Lalgarh itself on Monday. People came from deep inside the forest areas and terror-stricken villages in rallies with red flags on their shoulders. Numerous processions were organized on Tuesday and Wednesday in different parts of ‘Jangal Mahal’ or forest areas. The voting will take place in these areas on 30th. April.
The Maoists, who are on the offensive with spate of attacks in different states, are now facing a real challenge in West Bengal. Instead of security forces, they are facing determined people who are now ready to deal with them squarely.