Protesting the attack on Kandhamal tribal villagers by CRPF jawans during the recent cops-Maoist exchange of fire, the Communist Party of India (CPI) staged a road blockade and demonstration at Raj Mahal Square hereon Wednesday.
Hundreds of CPI activists led by party Bhubaneswar Zonal Council secretary Sura Jena took out a procession from the party State office to the protest spot holding placards and shouting slogans. The agitators demanded dismissal of the Kandhamal SP, Rs50 lakh each as compensation to the deceased persons’ families and removal of the CRPF from the district.
Jena said, “In the name of anti-Maoists operation, the CRPF jawans brutally killed five innocent tribal, including an 18-month-child. The jawans must be arrested for this.”
Jena further alleged that at a time when the State Government makes tall claims of taking steps for development of tribal people, villagers of Gumudimaha in Kandhamal walk for around 30 km to work as labourers to earn their livelihoods.
The Government should extend all welfare services to the tribals, he added.