Gadarias benefit from weak network of police informers

Bhopal, Apr 2 (UNI) A weak network of police informers is one of the reasons why the Dayaram-Rambabu Gadaria dacoit gang is managing to elude the cops, contends poet-litterateur Manmohan Kumar 'Tamanna', who has to his credit several authoritative books on Chambal Valley's dreaded bandits.

''At one time, an informer used to be treated like a son-in-law by the police but conditions changed with time. The network is not what it used to be in the seventies,'' the writer who scoured ravines for two to three years prior to penning his works, told UNI.

Dacoits also use casteism and social warp and weft to their advantage.

''These bandits are perceived as their respective caste heroes and their defamed acts enhance the 'prestige' of their castes. The Gadarias are acquainted with every nook and corner of Gwalior-Chambal area. At one time, the valley had several dacoit gangs,'' Mr Kumar explained.

Alleging lack of will among police officers, he said that in the bygone era he knew some Indian Police Service officers who had resolved to neutralise dreaded bandits and requested postings in the valley immediately after joining the service.

Kumar pointed out that, in the seventies, Sarvodaya leader Vinoba Bhave's efforts led to a strong desire -- among Chambal's dacoits -- to join the social mainstream and several bandits surrendered.

''Later, the lack of a proper mediator, political reasons and lack of dialogue led to cessation of such attempts,'' he added.

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