Jhargram (WB): Demanding released of a
Naxal leader, hundreds of Maoist-backed tribals on Thursday tried to
storm a police station but were pushed back by police
personnel who fired in air in West Midnapore district today.
At least 1500 tribal men and women from Chanapara,
Bhetli, Jaipur, Barobigha, Jaljali, Rasua and Indrabani
villagers gathered at the Sardiha railway station near
Banstala and marched to the Manikpara police station that had
been cordoned off by joint forces.
Police fired warning shots after teargas and
lathicharge failed to disperse tribals belonging to the
Maoist-backed People's Committe against Police Atrocities,
official sources said.
The tribals were demanding unconditional release of
PCPA leader Basudeb Mahato who was arrested early this month
for having links with Maoists and a halt to alleged 'police
atrocities'.
Police detained 12 tribals, they said.
Meanwhile, Maoists last night set ablaze a CPI-M party
office at Bachurdoba here. Furniture and documents were
destroyed in the blaze.
PTI
First Published: Thursday, March 18, 2010, 21:35