SC directs Chhattisgarh government to rein in Salwa Judum

New Delhi, Sep 19 (UNI) Expressing serious concern over the activities of Salwa Judum cadre in the garb of tackling Naxalite activities in Chhattisgarh, the Supreme Court today directed the state government to take remedial measures and put an end to their activities as soon as possible.

A bench comprising Chief Justice K G Balakrishnan and Justices P Sathasivam and J M Panchal posted the hearing of two Public Interest Litigations (PILs)filed by Ms Nandini Sunder and Mr Kartam Joga for October 23.

The petitioners have alleged that anti-social elements and criminals are taking advantage of Salwa Judum movement and harassing, looting and killing innocent people in the state by dubbing them naxalites.

The apex court asked the state government as well as the Centre how can such things be permitted to happen in a civilised society and it is the responsibility of the state to protect the lives and properties of the people and how can private individuals be allowed to take law in their own hands.

The Supreme Court also directed the Centre and the petitioners to respond to the reports submitted by the state government. The apex court was dissatisfied with the contents of the report which was submitted to it in a sealed cover.

UNI SC AM CS1322