Police never depicted locals as Naxalites, says SP

12 persons were arrested during polls for their criminal background

“In the backdrop of the polls, the special squad from Bangalore had arrested about 12 persons with serious criminal background,” he clarified.

He was addressing a Janasamparka Sabhe organised by the district administration at Menasinahadya Higher Primary School premises on Saturday.

“Basically I’m a ST member. I have a clear idea about the Scheduled Tribes, their difficulties and miseries. I will never do injustice for them. But, now it is not a secret that Kalejagowda, one of the arrested, had cooperated with Naxals to set explosives near Goligoodu school,” the SP said.

“Similarly, documents are there for the acts of Shankar, Sundar and others. Villagers in Shirlu, Tanikodu near Sringeri have warned the Naxals not to come to their house, or else they will leave the house. This is a welcome development. Naxals cannot survive without the involvement of the locals. Don’t give shelter to Naxals for any reason,” he appealed.

Nagaraj said fighting against the government with guns is a crime in a democratic set up.

The government is ready to welcome those Naxals who surrender their weapons, he said and assured that the police would not take action against those who gave food to the Naxals because of fear. He requested the locals to give information on the movements of the Naxalites.

ITDP officer Sharmila delineated on the government facilities being offered to the tribals.

ZP Chief Executive Officer Sundar Naik said extra importance is being given for the development of Naxal infested areas. “Rs 5 lakh grant has been sanctioned for the Edagunda road. Steps will be taken to provide employment opportunities to the youth of the region,” he said.

Villagers from Edagunda, Menasinahadya, Kallugudde took part in the programme.

Attikodige Gram Panchayat member Devendra, Lamp Society Director Kempegowda, Circle Inspector T D Prabhu and others were present on the occasion.

‘Leave us alone’

“Police-Naxal confrontation has become common here. We are amidst them; leave us alone...” That was how Ramegowda of Menasinahadya rued before the Superintendent of Police.

“On the one hand, the Naxals holding guns demand food, and on the other, police enquire us why we gave food to them. Whom should we answer? We all villagers have decided not to support the Naxals. After this resolution nobody from the village has joined the Naxals. If you want, you can arrest all of us as you have already arrested 12,” he said. Speaking earlier to this, Lamp Society Director Kempegowda said “I myself accompanied by Mariappa had been to villages and campaigned against Naxalism. But Mariappa himself has been arrested now. Police should review this.” The wife of Kalegowda lamented on the miserable condition of the family after Kalegowda was arrested. She claimed that her husband is innocent, and urged for his release at the earliest.