Nandigram violence: BUPC, CPI(M) exchange bombs

Kolkata, Jun 17: In renewed violence, continuing for the third consecutive day, the supporters of Trinamool-led Bhumi Ucched Pratirodh Committe (BUPC) and CPI (M) hurled bombs and exchanged gunfire with each other in Nandigram today.

Inspector General (Law and Order) Raj Kanojia today said bombs were hurled and shots fired from both sides of Tekhali bridge, that separates Nandigram, now a free-zone of BUPC, and Khejuri, a stronghold of CPI(M).

''The bombs were hurled from a distance and so far we have no reports of any casualties,''he said.

Yesterday the police fired about 10 rounds in the air to quell the mob, East Midnapore SP A Srinivas said.

The encounter between CPI(M) and Protirodh Committee members started after the latter allegedly came to apprehend four BUPC members, arrested for firing at a sub-inspector.

Protirodh Committee supporters allegedly entered Khejuri areas on Saturday last and torched the CPI (M) camp, leaving 350 of the supporters homeless for the second time.

Incidentally, around the same time CPI(M) State Secretary Biman Basu, who was holding a top level party meeting at Maniktala in Tamluk Town with East Midnapur district party bosses, to discuss about the future steps taken to maintain peace.

Not mentioning the name of Trinamool Congress supremo Mamata Banerjee, veteram marxist leader Jyoti Basu said the Opposition was responsible for making the CPI (M) supporters homeless.

''The move for bringing peace in the area received a rude jolt after Saturday's incident. They are bringing back uncertainty and playing with fire. The administration should take proper steps,'' Mr Basu said.

Criticising Mr Basu's meeting at Tamluk, MLA and BUPC leader Sisir Adhikary said CPI(M) supporters tried to enter Nandigram on Saturday with police, which was against the earlier settlement talks between Mr Basu and Ms Banerjee.

UNI