Bhumkal continues drive against Naxals

Nagpur: After Nelgunda, Bhumkal Sanghatan organized another awareness drive against Naxalite ideology in rebel’s territory at Dhamrancha in Gadchiroli district recently. Over 1,000 tribals participated in the drive. They protested against killing of innocent civilians, including ex-Sarpanch and Dalit Leader Patru Durge, and also recent butchering of a Dalit boy in the village by the outlaws.Villagers from neighbouring villages like Manerajaram, Dubguda, Bamapali, Mandhra, Yeramnar, Tonder, Chitveli, and Naingundam participated in the drive. Located about 350 kms from Nagpur, this place is devoid of infrastructure like roads and transport facilitiesm allowing the Maoists to rule the roost. The villagers travelled 10-12 kms to attend the event, which was first of its kind organized in the area, according to Bhumkal activists led by Arvind Sovani, secretary Datta Shirke and member Shrikant Bhowte.
Interestingly, villagers made a point to attend the event despite the fact that they were threatened by the rebels who distributed pamphlets warning them of consequences. Even organizers were warned against convening the event.
The villagers paid tributes to 23 Dalits, who were killed by the Naxalites, suspecting them to be police informers. Bhowte addressed the gathering in his inimitable style calling on the tribals to fight against the Maoists. He explained that only development could rid them of Naxal menace and they must come together and push the government for infrastructure and amenities.
He accused the Naxals of extorting crores of rupees from the tendu patta contractors, industrialists and builders and instead of allowing development works. The money was used for purchasing arms and ammunition, he said. “The Naxalites don’t believe in the Constitution of India written by Babasaheb Ambedkar. All tribals should stand united against the oppressive regime of Naxals,” said Bhowte.
Sovani called on tribals to fight for their rights. He also announced building of a memorial for Durge who was killed by Naxals for carrying out development in the Dhamrancha village. Another activist, Milind Tulse called on tribals to join them for development of the region, as in last 35 years many people had fallen prey to various diseases due to lack of proper healthcare facilities.