CPI(M) demands high level probe in Andhra smuggler killings

The party has alleged that 'ordinary workers' have become a target of 'police brutality'

CPI(M) today demanded a judicial inquiry into the killing of 20 people during a police operation against Red Sanders smugglers in Andhra Pradesh, alleging that "ordinary workers" have become the target of "police brutality" and demanded compensation for their kin.

The Left party also raised questions over the encounter in Telangana where five undertrial prisoners, alleged to be associated with SIMI, were killed, alleging it was "premeditated" action by police to avenge the killing of two personnel.

"These brazen murders in police custody cannot be swept under the carpet. There has to be a high level enquiry into the incident and exemplary action taken against the guilty police officials," it added.

The party claimed that those killed in Chittoor District were labourers hired for cutting down red sanders wood by those who illegally trade in it.

"The Polit Bureau of CPI (M) condemns the police action in the Andhra Pradesh. The police claims regarding the incident are untenable as there is sufficient evidence to show that these labourers were killed with impunity," the party said in a statement.

The CPI(M) aid the state government and police authorities have failed to check red sanders smuggling and instead of taking appropriate measures in this regard, ordinary workers have become the target of police brutality.

"The Polit Bureau demands a judicial enquiry be instituted to enquire into the incident. The state government should also provide full compensation to the families of those killed," the party said.

Denouncing Telangana shooting as a "staged encounter", the party said it seem to be an act of revenge for the deaths of two police men in an earlier encounter involving some former SIMI activist.