Tribals up in arms again and decline to withdraw blockade

Jhargram, Nov 13 (UNI) Within half-an-hour of reaching a decision with the administration that road blockade will be withdrawn in and around the town, the tribals tonight suddenly took a complete ''U' turn and declined to remove the blockade.

The tribals defied the decision and said Munsiram Murmu, who represented the 'Majhi Maroa' organisation, had no authority to withdraw the movement.

When ADM (General) West Midnapur District Eron Ebrahim Israel went to lift the blockade, he had a direct confrontation with the tribals, who had upped the ante and prevented him from doing so.

Mr Murmu was chased away by the tribals, while Mr Israel's request was not adhered to.

Vehement opposition came in front of Sarada Vidyapeeth near Jhargram to Jamboni road and also from the people of ward number 13 at Jhargram. The administration was silent spectator to the whole incident and resigned in their attempt.

Political observers now asserted that the 'Majhi Maroa' religious outfit was not in true control of the tribals and felt that the Maoists were dictating terms from behind.

Earlier, following a successful meeting between the district administration and leaders of 'Majhi Maroa' and its youth organ 'Juam Gaonta' here this evening, the blockade in Jhargram town was withdrawn.

Meanwhile, Home Secretary Ashok Mohan Chakravarty in Kolkata said the area had been on boil since the landmine blast.

''We are trying to solve it through dialogue. West Midnapore District Magistrate N S Nigam had a talk with all political parties,'' he added.

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