CPI (Maoist) ultras explode dynamite at market complex

Daltonganj, Nov 19: Armed CPI (Maoist) ultras exploded dynamite at a market complex at Mahudand village, 90 km from here, last night as the two-day Jharkhand bandh, called by the banned outfit to protest the Nandigram violence, began from midnight last night.

Besides Jharkhand, the bandh call was also given by the South Bengal Committee of the outfit in West Bengal and Orissa.

Superintendent of Police (SP) Deepak Kumar Verma today confirmed the incident, adding that police were unable to reach the site of the incident so far.

It was apprehended that the ultras might have planted landmines in the surrounding areas, therefore police were awaiting equipment to detect the landmines.

According to reports, about 60 ultras arrived at the Mahudand village under Hussainabad sub-division and exploded dynamite at the newly-constructed market place, damaging three rooms.

They also shouted slogans before leaving the place.

Director Genral of Police (DGP) Vishnu Dayal Ram yesterday said elaborate arrangements had been made throughout the state to thwart any untoward incident during the bandh on November 19 and 20.

Special directions had been given to the SPs of the bordering areas to maintain strong vigil.

Official sources said railway authorities were asked to cancel or re-direct certain trains running on the Coal India Company (CIC) section.

UNI