Berhampur: Six years after the alleged encounter of five persons of Kandhamal district by security forces, their widows demanded a probe by special investigation team (SIT) and sought Rs 50 lakh compensation.
With the help of activists, they submitted a memorandum to Governor Ganeshi Lal and Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik through revenue divisional commissioner, Southern divisions, here after taking out a rally.
Ayub Padra of Bujuli, Syamson Majhi of Bhunguruiguda, Ghasiram Bagsingh of Mardipanka under Brahmanigaon police limits, Laxmikant Nayak and Sanatan mallick of Gaheju village under Tikabali police limits had been ‘killed’ in police firing at Bhaliguda jungle in Gajapati district November 14, 2012.
The widows said their husbands were killed by police in a fake encounter. The deceased were not Maoists, but social activists and fought for the rights of the villagers, a widow said.
Laxmi Bagasingh, wife of Ghasiram, Sikaalu Majhi, wife of Syamson, Ranjita, wife of Ayub and Mamita, wife of Sanatan were among others who joined the rally.
“We have also demanded that the policemen involved in the fake firing be booked and a stop to alleged police excesses to tribals in the name of combing operation,” a widow.
According to the case diary, security forces killed the five including two farmers while they were returning to their villages after attending a praja court conducted by the Maoists.
“The three persons had gone to attend praja court as the rebels had summoned them,” said a widow.
The family members of the deceased are now leading a very miserable life after losing their breadwinners, an activist said adding that they should be provided justice.
PNN
