Ministers come home for Holi, state on alert

A day after the murder of Jharkhand MP Sunil Mahato by suspected Maoists, the police sounded a red alert across the state today.

A day after the murder of Jharkhand MP Sunil Mahato by suspected Maoists, the police sounded a red alert across the state today. Police patrolling has been intensified in Naxalite-affected districts bordering Jharkhand, following the 24-hour bandh call given by the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha.

“Chhattisgarh is more prone to Naxalite violence than its neighbouring states,” an officer said, adding that it is one of the worst Maoist-affected states in the country with over 600 civilians and security force personnel losing their lives in Naxalite violence last year.

The police was forced to beef up security cover on Sunday, with 11 of the 12 state ministers arriving in Chhattisgarh to celebrate Holi.

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“All districts have been directed to make proper security arrangements especially during political functions,” a senior police officer said. Most of the political leaders are likely to return to the state capital by Wednesday.

“Several leaders from Opposition Congress and ruling BJP have received Naxalite threats,” said the officer. As Naxalites prefer to attack political leaders in presence of people, it has been decided to take extra care and make elaborate security arrangements during public meetings,” he said. Police stations along the border have also been put on high alert after Sunday’s incident.