Various democratic and social organisations on Friday staged a rally here in protest against the alleged fake encounter in which five tribal and dalit youths were killed at Bhaliaguda under the Mohana police station in Gajapati district on November 14, 2012.
The activists demanded a judicial probe into the ‘encounter’ and compensation of Rs 10 lakh for each of deceased’s families. They submitted a memorandum to the Governor in this regard.
Rights activist Narendra Mohanty claimed that deceased youths Ayub Pradra of Bujuli, Syamson Majhi of Bhinguruguda and Bhasiram Bagsingh of Mardipanka village under Brahmunigam PS, Sanatan Mallick of Gaheju and lakshmikanta Nayak of Tikabali village in Kandhamal district were social activists and never involved in any underground activities.
“My husband and other deceased persons were summoned by the Maoists to Bhaliaguda to face the ‘Praja Court’.Three person had reached the court via Mohana. SOG and police personnel gunned down them while they were returning home,” alleged Ranjita Patamajhi, a victim’s wife.
“At least 50 people, including 20 women and 15 minors, were killed in encounters during last seven years by the police and most of them were found to be poor dalit & tribals without any arms and ammunitions,” said activist Biswapriya Kanungo.
He said such ‘encounters’ violate human rights and in no-way help curb extremism.