PCPA calls bandh in Paschim Medinipur

Naxalite-backed People’s Committee against Police Atrocities has called for an indefinite bandh in Paschim Medinipur district from tomorrow to protest alleged torture by security forces. “Hundreds of innocent villagers have been subjected to untold suffering and atrocities by the joint security forces in the name of apprehending Naxalites in Jangalmahal area and there has been no remedy despite repeated pleas,” PCPA spokesman Asit Mahato said.

Mahato demanded release of PCPA leader Chhatradhar Mahato as also "innocent" villagers and PCPA members arrested in the name of apprehending Naxalites by the forces.

The bandh will be observed all over the district with rail and road blockades, he said, threatening to indulge in violence, if resisted. “If the securitymen can attack our houses, set fire to dwellings of poor villagers and arrest them, assault womenfolk in the name of searching Naxalite rebels, why should not we ransack government buildings and paralyse the administration,” the PCPA spokesman said. The district administration refused to comment on the PCPA’s bandh call and threats to stall normal life.