Kolkata: In a warning to associates and
supporters of arrested PCPA leader Chhatradhar Mahato, the
West Bengal government on Saturday said that those demanding his
release were punishable under the Unlawful Activities
(Prevention) Act.
"The UAPA says that those helping banned organisations
in various ways like providing funds and publicity are
punishable under the act. Thus, those who are advocating his
release are also punishable," Chief Secretary Asok Mohan
Chakraborty told newsmen here.
Chakraborty was reacting to a question whether the
government would take any action against those lobbying for
the release of Mahato who was arrested on September 26 under
UAPA at Lalgarh.
He said that those associates whose names were revealed
by the Maoist leaders and workers last week were also
punishable in the eyes of the law.
Mahato`s arrest by CID in the guise of journalists had
raised the hackles of the press fraternity which had accused
the state government of compromising with their livelihood.
Yesterday, Maoist leader Kishenji had contested the
police`s claim that Mahato owned property, had bank accounts
and a fabulous insurance policy, challenging the government to
seize the property and release the related documents to the
press.
Bureau Report
