On June 18, the security forces initiated an operation in Lalgarh and surrounding areas. Almost a month after consolidating their position in the area, they are now on the verge of a joint operation with the Jharkhand Police against the Maoists who are operating from the Dalma Range in the neighbouring state. Flush-out operations are also going to be started in Bankura and Purulia districts. Expecting a major backlash from the Maoists, the police have requested the Union government to station the central forces for a longer period of time in the state. Simultaneously, the West Bengal government is also trying to take the local people into confidence by starting a number of development projects on an emergency basis.

As many as 39 people have been arrested in Lalgarh and neighbouring areas in the past one month, including three — Gour Chakraborty, spokesperson for the CPI (Maoists), who was arrested from Kolkata, Gopinath Murmu and Kanchan Murmu arrested from Sarenga — under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act. However, top Maoist leaders, including Mallujula Koteshwar Rao alias Kishanji, have eluded the police. Even Chattradhar Mahato, leader of the Peoples Committee against Police Atrocities, declared ‘most wanted’ by the state government, is yet to be arrested, despite being present in the area. “I dare the state government to arrest me, if they can. If they arrest me, entire Lalgarh will burn. I am very much in Lalgarh. The police are committing atrocities against poor tribals in the name of operation against Maoists. Innocent people are being arrested and labelled as Maoists. Our agitation will continue against all this,” said Chattradhar, speaking to The Indian Express over phone. Here’s a look at the situation in Lalgarh today.

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